The Williamsdale Battery Energy Storage System has reached its Commercial Operation Date, starting commercial service for what is described as the largest energy storage installation ever built in the Australian Capital Territory.

Consolidated Power Projects (CPP) worked alongside owner Eku Energy as the principal delivery partner on the project.

A 250 MW installation at the heart of the ACT grid

The battery is rated at 250 MW and 500 MWh. According to CPP, it can supply roughly one-third of the ACT's power needs during peak periods. The system stores surplus renewable electricity and releases it when needed, a function that helps balance supply and demand, strengthen grid reliability, and support the territory's target of net-zero emissions by 2045.

With the facility now in commercial operation, the ACT gains significant storage capacity intended to support a more flexible, reliable electricity network and allow greater use of renewable generation.

Reflecting on the milestone, James Bolton, CPP's Project Manager Operations NSW, said reaching commercial operations was something everyone involved could be proud of.

He thanked the CPP team, subcontractors, and Eku for their efforts and for working together to resolve challenges along the way. "I hope everyone who worked on Williamsdale gets the chance to drive past it one day and tell someone, 'I helped build that,'" he said.

Early collaboration and a clean safety record

CPP attributes the milestone to its close working relationship with Eku Energy. Early involvement allowed the two teams to develop the design together and resolve key details before construction began, which CPP says established trust that carried through delivery.

Regular onsite collaboration kept communication open and helped resolve challenges as they arose, bringing together engineering expertise, practical problem-solving, and a commitment to safety.

From the start of construction through to commercial operation, the project recorded no reportable safety incidents. Both organisations attribute that result to their shared commitment to safety and disciplined communication.

Tom Best, Chief Operating Officer at Eku Energy, said the project demonstrates that the transition to renewables can be orderly, safe, and beneficial for everyone. "We have shown that with the right partners, you can build big and still build responsibly," he said.

Engineering through a Canberra winter

Delivering major energy infrastructure through sub-zero mornings and frozen ground required the team to adapt conventional construction methods. One example was warming the water used in concrete pours to prevent it from freezing.

Technology also supported efficient and safe delivery. Drones followed automated flight paths to capture site imagery, track progress, and share updates with stakeholders, which reduced the need for some on-foot inspections. Meanwhile, 3D LiDAR surveying supported the precise positioning of heavy transformers and high-voltage equipment.

CPP said its experienced team brought the engineering expertise and practical skills needed to deliver the project. Drawing on years of regional construction experience, long-serving crew members worked alongside newer local workers, sharing knowledge and maintaining a strong focus on safety and quality through Canberra's demanding winter conditions.

Designed to be a good neighbour

Consideration for neighbouring residents shaped the project from its earliest planning stages.

One of the facility's most distinctive features is a nine-metre-high acoustic wall, designed to minimise noise from battery-cooling fans, including during quiet overnight hours. Its deep-green colour was selected in consultation with local council planners so that it blends with the surrounding rural landscape.

Community engagement continued throughout construction, keeping residents informed about activities and progress.

The project's contribution also extends beyond the site. Through its Powering Big Dreams grant program, Eku Energy supports Canberra not-for-profits, charities, environmental groups, and other community initiatives, sharing the benefits of the energy transition locally.

Acknowledgements

For CPP, the achievement demonstrates what experienced teams and committed partners can accomplish together: major energy infrastructure delivered with engineering expertise, a shared focus on safety and care for the surrounding community.

The company thanked Eku Energy, the ACT Government, the local community, and every member of the project team who helped bring Williamsdale BESS to life.

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