French independent power producer (IPP) Neoen Australia has begun construction of a 215MW/963MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) at its 440MWp Culcairn Solar Farm in New South Wales, marking the company’s first behind-the-meter BESS project.

The project, which Neoen announced this week, is scheduled to enter commercial operation in 2028. The BESS will store surplus solar generation before supplying electricity to the grid, improving network flexibility and maximising the value of renewable energy production.

The battery system will be delivered by NHOA Energy, with construction undertaken by a joint venture between Equans Solar & Storage and Bouygues Construction Australia.

Once completed, the project will increase Neoen’s renewable energy and storage portfolio in New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory to more than 1GW.

The Culcairn development reflects the growing trend of integrating large-scale battery storage directly with renewable energy assets to improve efficiency, support grid stability and optimise energy management.

Australia remains one of the world’s fastest-growing markets for battery energy storage systems, with developers increasingly pairing utility-scale solar and wind projects with BESS as the country accelerates its transition to renewable energy.

Image: Shutterstock