Perth-based company awarded $50m contract for works on Collie big battery project

The delivery of the Collie Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in Western Australia continues to progress as Synergy awards a new work contract. 

Perth-based company SCEE Electrical has been awarded a $50 million contract for switchyard works that will connect the BESS to the power grid. This new contract award builds on the $160 million worth of civil, electrical and major equipment installation works SCEE Electrical is already undertaking. 

Scope of works under the new contract include the delivery of a 330kV switchyard, substation and support ancillary buildings and equipment that will connect the Collie battery project to Western Power’s network, ultimately supporting renewable energy integration and grid stability. 

“The Cook Government is committed to building one of the biggest battery systems in the world and its great news that a Perth-based company is playing a leading role to bring this project to fruition. 

“Congratulations to SCEE Electrical for being awarded this contract that will deliver more jobs for Western Australians as well as support the local economy. 

“The Collie battery is crucial to WA’s sustainable energy future and it will play a major role in providing better energy outcomes for households and businesses,” Acting Energy Minister Dr Tony Buti said. 

The project will include the supply, installation and commissioning of 330kV transformers, circuit breakers, surge arrestors, current/voltage transformers and a control room. 

The 500MW/2,000MWh Collie BESS is due to be completed in late 2025, and it is set to become one of the biggest battery energy storage systems in Australia. 

The overall project is expected to support 500 jobs at peak construction period.

The Western Australian Government has committed $2.3 billion for Synergy to deliver new battery storage that will support renewable energy integration and grid stability as State-owned coal-fired power stations are due to retire by 2030. 

The Collie BESS is located more than 200 kilometres south-east of Perth, next to the Collie Power Station on Boys Home Road. 

Battery energy storage systems collect excess energy from rooftop solar and wind farms during the day and release it when needed in the evening and at peak times. 

“Collie will be home to one of the largest battery storage systems in the world once this project is complete. 

“It means Collie will continue to play a vital role in the energy system for decades to come, having powered WA for over a century. 

“As we move to renewable energy and battery storage, this project adds to the legacy of a community who is committed to playing its role in the future energy needs of the State,” Collie MLA Jodie Hanns said. 

Source: Government of Western Australia – Media Statements; Synergy (1, 2)