The Allan Labor Government has fast-tracked two more renewable energy projects - helping drive down Victorians power bills by bringing more new renewable energy online.
Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny has approved a 300-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS) in Heywood, and 400-megawatt BESS in Glenrowan through the Development Facilitation Program (DFP) - a pathway that is fast-tracking cheaper and cleaner energy projects for eligible projects.
The DFP pathway is about making good decisions faster, and since the program was expanded to include renewable energy projects less than two years ago the Labor Government has unlocked more than $9 billion worth of investment across 25 projects that will create more than 3,300 new jobs in construction and operations.
Once completed, these 24 projects will collectively generate enough power for more than 735,000 households annually - with the battery storage capable of meeting evening peak demand for two million households.
Atmos Renewables' 300-megawatt BESS in Heywood strategically located close to AusNet's Heywood Terminal Station will have the capacity to meet peak evening demand for 103,000 homes. Up to 150 jobs will be created during construction with ongoing roles once operations commence.
Akaysha Energy's 400-megawatt BESS in Glenrowan will connect nearby into AusNet's Glenrowan Terminal Station and will have the capacity to power 138,000 homes during times of high demand and create approximately 100 jobs during construction.
The batteries will soak up and store cheap renewable energy during the day that can be pumped back into the electricity grid at times of peak demand, helping to deliver cheaper energy bills and reliable electricity to Victorian homes and businesses.
Proponents for both projects were required to undertake consultation with the community and relevant government agencies including local councils, the Country Fire Authority, AusNet, and DEECA.
The Labor Government's record investments in renewable energy means Victoria consistently has the lowest wholesale power prices in the country - bringing online even more renewable energy will ensure prices stay low into the future.
As stated by the Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny
"The Development Facilitation Program is all about making good decisions, faster. This fast-tracked pathway has unlocked more than $9 billion worth of investment into renewable energy projects, helping provide cheaper and cleaner energy to hundreds of thousands of Victorian households."
As stated by the Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D'Ambrosio
"More renewable energy projects means more reliable and cheaper power for families, more jobs for Victorians and a cleaner energy system for the future."
