Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
What is a BESS, how do they work, and how do we connect projects to the network?
Battery Energy Storage Systems are large, rechargeable batteries that store energy when it’s plentiful and release it when it’s needed most. In Western Australia they help us make better use of wind and solar farms and smooth peaks and troughs in demand, keeping the power flowing to homes and businesses. They’re part of how we’re building a smarter, more resilient electricity network for the future.
Why BESS matters in WA
We’re seeing more renewable generation connections across the South West Interconnected Network (SWIN). BESS capture excess energy and release it later, supporting reliability during hot evenings and low demand periods. For communities, that means increased renewable energy flowing through the SWIN to homes, as well as increased system security.
How a BESS works
Charge
1
When there’s extra generation, the system stores energy in battery packs.
Convert
2
To store power the electronics converts electrical energy to chemical energy for later use.
Manage
3
Control systems monitor health, temperature and performance of each individual battery pack which makes up the utility-scale systems.
Discharge
4
When demand rises, the system releases stored energy back into the network to support supply.
Where BESS are used
BESS can operate at community-scale sites supporting reliability for towns and suburbs across the SWIN. Utility-scale sites support system security, co-located with wind and solar to store excess energy for later use. BESS are also deployed at industrial sites to manage demand charges and keep operations running during short disruptions.
Safety and standards
BESS use multiple layers of safety: battery management, protection and control systems, thermal management and fire detection. We work with regulators, our Inspectors and the emergency services to make sure systems connect to the network correctly.
Connecting a BESS to the network
Utility-scale connections begin with early engagement. We assess the location and capacity, then run technical studies to confirm protection, control and system stability requirements. After detailed design, commissioning and testing, we enable energisation when it’s safe and compliant. If you’re exploring a project, contact our Access Solutions team.
FAQs
A utility-scale BESS is essentially the same technology but much larger with more sophisticated control and protection systems. It supports the wider electricity system, not just a single home.
They charge when energy is plentiful and discharge when demand is high. Operating schedules vary depending on market and system security conditions.
Noise is managed through design and siting. Operational sound is comparable to other electrical equipment and is assessed through planning approvals.
Fire safety systems include prevention, detection and suppression, and are built to relevant Australian standards with emergency response plans.
Ownership models vary. Some are owned by private proponents, others by project partnerships. All must meet technical and safety requirements to connect.