The Merredin Battery Energy Storage System (MEB) is a 100MW/four-hour large-scale grid-connected energy storage project under development in Western Australia, Australia.
The project, a joint development between Atmos Renewables and Nomad Energy, aims to support the state’s transition to cleaner energy sources by providing dispatchable capacity to the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
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MEB is expected to help balance the variable output from renewable generation and improve grid stability. The battery is designed to operate in a merchant capacity, participating in the Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM) and Frequency Control Ancillary Services (FCAS) markets.
Upon completion, MEB will be one of the largest battery systems in Western Australia, contributing significantly to energy security and reliability in the region.
Project Location
The Merredin BESS is situated adjacent to the existing Merredin Solar Farm, approximately 260km east of Perth in Western Australia.
The strategic co-location with the solar farm allows for integration benefits, although the battery system will operate independently of the solar generation.
The project site lies within the Eastern Wheatbelt region, in proximity to key grid infrastructure which allows for efficient connection to the Western Power network.
Capacity and Infrastructure
The battery energy storage system is designed with a maximum capacity of 200MW/400MWh. The infrastructure includes lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology and associated power conversion systems.
The installation will feature modular battery units housed in containers, integrated with inverters, transformers, switchgear, and control systems.
MEB will connect to the SWIS via a new substation located at the Merredin Terminal, which is part of the South West Interconnected Network operated by Western Power.
The infrastructure is being designed to accommodate potential future expansion, subject to market conditions and regulatory approvals.
Financing and Ownership
The Merredin BESS is being jointly developed by Atmos Renewables and Nomad Energy. Atmos owns and operates a portfolio of utility-scale wind, solar, and storage projects across Australia.
The company has fully financed the project through internal resources and institutional equity, without relying on government grants or debt financing.
Merredin Battery Energy Storage System Technological Details
The MEB will utilise lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery technology, chosen for its stability, thermal performance, and long cycle life.
The battery system is engineered to deliver four hours of energy at full capacity, with the flexibility to perform both peak shaving and frequency regulation.
The system will incorporate advanced battery management software, real-time monitoring, and predictive maintenance features to ensure efficient operation.
The modular design enables ease of expansion and maintenance. Cooling and fire suppression systems are integrated to meet stringent safety standards.
The energy management system will be compatible with future market developments, including participation in fast frequency response services if introduced to the WEM.
Development and Timeline
Construction of the Merredin BESS officially commenced in August 2025, following necessary approvals and procurement arrangements. Early site works began with civil preparation and substation development.
The project is expected to be completed and operational by late 2026. Key milestones include completion of substation construction by mid-2026, followed by battery installation, commissioning, and final testing.
The development is in line with the Western Australian Government’s energy transition goals and supports initiatives such as the implementation of the SWIS Demand Assessment and the State’s Battery Industry Strategy.
Contractors and Suppliers
GenusPlus Group, through its subsidiary, has been contracted to deliver the substation and associated balance-of-plant infrastructure.
Genus is responsible for the detailed design, procurement, and construction of the Merredin BESS substation, including 33kV and 220kV switchyards.
Western Power is the network operator facilitating the grid connection works and compliance with WEM requirements.
