$1.3 billion Morwell BESS receives development approval in Victoria

Portugal-headquartered clean energy developer TagEnergy has received development approval from Victoria’s Department of Transport and Planning for the proposed $1.3 billion (USD 900 million) Morwell Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

One of the largest approved battery storage projects to progress in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, the  620 MW 4-hour Morwell BESS will have a capacity of up to 1 GW or enough energy to power more than 344,000 homes during periods of peak demand.

Located approximately 150 kilometres east of Melbourne, and 3 kilometres south of Morwell, the project will connect to the existing 500 kV Hazelwood Terminal Station, approximately 650 metres from the site.

TagEnergy Managing Partner Australia Andrew Riggs said projects like Morwell BESS would help meet the growing need for energy storage across Victoria.

“Victoria’s electricity system is changing rapidly and battery storage will be essential to ensure reliable power remains available as demand continues to grow and new sources of generation come online,” Riggs said.

“The Latrobe Valley has been at the centre of Victoria’s electricity system for generations. Morwell BESS will help ensure the region remains a vital part of the state’s energy landscape for decades to come.”

The next stages of development include securing a grid connection agreement and completing the remaining activities required to support delivery.

Morwell BESS is expected to reach financial close by the end of 2027 and be operational in late 2029.