Works begin on $330m Swanbank big battery project

Works to deliver Queensland’s biggest batteries have commenced at the site of the former Swanbank B coal-fired power station. 

The $330 million Swanbank Battery project is a key component of the Swanbank Clean Energy Hub, and it is being delivered by CleanCo, in partnership with Tesla and Yurika. 

“Energy infrastructure is at the core of what we do, and we’re really looking forward to the partnership with CleanCo Queensland, Tesla and of course the local community to reimagine Swanbank through its Clean Energy Hub. 

“Alongside cheaper, cleaner and more reliable energy, this publicly owned asset supports the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, creating jobs for Queenslanders and signals an incredibly positive investment into our clean energy future,” Yurika Executive General Manager Belinda Watton said. 

“CleanCo has consulted extensively with the local community to develop a master plan for the Swanbank Clean Energy Hub, ensuring it is not only South East Queensland’s flagship energy precinct, but that it reflects the values and needs of the local community as well. 

“This is the beginning of a new era for Swanbank and CleanCo is proud to be the custodian of a site which has evolved and adapted with Queensland’s energy landscape from coal to gas and now new battery technologies,” CleanCo CEO Tom Metcalfe said. 

Sod turning at Swanbank Battery (source: CleanCo)

The battery project will have a capacity of 250MW / 500MWh, storing enough energy to power over two-thirds of Ipswich for two hours each night when demand increases. It will be connected to the electricity grid via a new 275kV substation that will be built on site by Powerlink. 

The Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is set to arrive on site later this year and the Swanbank Battery project is expected to be completed by mid-2025. 

Swanbank Battery is CleanCo’s first battery project, and it is anticipated to create about 60 jobs during its construction phase and up to 10 full-time positions once operational. 

“My government will always champion projects that deliver cheaper, cleaner energy to Queensland households. 

“It’s why we are delivering big batteries in your neighbourhood, and today marking the start of construction on one right here in Swanbank. 

“It’s because of technologies like this that we will reach the ambitious energy targets put before parliament. 

“Renewables are driving down the spot wholesale price of power below zero, which is why we will continue to invest in them,” Premier Steven Miles said. 

“This big battery is proof the Miles Government is taking real action to decarbonise our state’s economy in a way that makes cost of living more affordable for Queenslanders. 

“Conversion of the Swanbank site to a Clean Energy Hub means job security for the local workforce – a key commitment under the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan,” Minister for Energy and Clean Economy Jobs Mick de Brenni said. 

The $330 million project is funded through the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund, and it is just one of the many renewable energy projects being delivered as part of the Queensland Government’s Big Energy Build. 

The battery project is being built within the 330-hectare Swanbank Power Station Precinct, which will be transformed into a clean energy hub that will ensure long-term jobs and economic opportunities for the region. 

CleanCo is working closely with the Ipswich community to develop the Swanbank Clean Energy Hub, which is proposed to feature a range of energy generation and storage technologies – with Swanbank Battery as its first major project. 

“The Miles Government is committed to Queensland’s transformation to a stronger, decarbonised economy. 

“That’s why we have provided $330 million for this project through the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund. 

“This battery will store the solar generated across the rooftops of Ipswich, allowing it to be used when the sun goes down,” Deputy Premier and Treasurer Cameron Dick MP said. 

“Swanbank’s big battery and Clean Energy Hub are part of the Miles Government plan for clean energy jobs and training and an affordable, reliable power supply. 

“The Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan is delivering more local jobs and putting Ipswich at the forefront of our clean energy revolution,” Member for Bundamba and Training and Skills Minister Lance McCallum said. 

Source: Queensland Government – Media Statements; CleanCo (1, 2, 3); Infrastructure Magazine; Renew Economy