Kilnacroft Creek Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
Important
Akaysha Energy is committed to the delivery, development and deployment of large-scale batteries and renewables around the world.
We are proposing to develop a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Glenellen, New South Wales .
What is a Battery Energy Storage System?
The Kilnacroft Creek BESS functions as a robust, rechargeable battery for the power grid. It captures excess energy from various sources from the grid, including solar and wind, to store for later use. This stored energy can be rapidly released back into the grid during periods of high demand or when renewable generation is low, helping to balance supply and demand and ensure a reliable flow of electricity.
This critical piece of energy infrastructure will help secure the energy supply in New South Wales, by providing storage of excess energy generated during off peak hours for use during high demand periods.
Where will the BESS be located, and what is its capacity?
The BESS is proposed to be built at 151 Ortlipp Road, Glenellen, adjacent to the existing Jindera Substation, the Glenellen Solar Farm currently under construction, and other electrical infrastructure. The BESS will be built on approximately 10 hectares (ha) of undeveloped land. The BESS is being designed for a capacity of up to 500MW/2000MWh, providing up to 4 hours of energy storage, and delivered using world-class leading battery technology.
What is the proposed planning process for the project?*
The project is in the preliminary stage of planning and design, with a Scoping Report requesting Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) currently being prepared for submission to the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). Once issued, the SEARs will guide the preparation of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS).
Project announced and early technical studies begin DPHI assess Scoping Report and issues SEARs
*Timelines are indicative only
Detailed technical studies carried out to inform EIS preparation and submission
Project put on public exhibition and outcome determined Construction starts
Kilnacroft Creek BESS commences operations
The project will include:
Installation of battery units, inverters, cooling systems, and other equipment.
Underground connection into the Jindera Substation.
Vegetation screening around the site boundary.
The BESS will support the state’s energy network and a transition to clean energy.
Project Benefits
Storing up to 500MW/2000MWh of energy and providing up to 4 hours of energy storage.
Creation of local employment throughout construction, supporting the need for economic diversification and economic stimulus.
What is the land currently used for, and why was it selected?
The proposed Kilnacroft Creek BESS site is currently used as a rural-residential property with small agricultural grazing area, adjacent to the Jindera Substation. We selected this site following extensive studies conducted across several locations. It has been chosen for:
Minimal native vegetation removal
Highly disturbed agricultural grazing land
Proximity to existing electrical infrastructure
Increased energy reliability by supplying stored energy at times of low energy generation.
Funding for local community benefit programs.
What should I expect during construction?
The busiest traffic periods associated with a BESS will occur during the construction phase. A Traffic Impact Assessment will be developed in collaboration with Transport for NSW and Council to ensure proper management of construction traffic. Traffic
Noise
Construction and operational noise limits are determined by NSW regulations and will be met. Noise modelling for construction activities will be conducted and all works will be arranged to meet noise regulations and approval conditions. Mitigation measures to minimise the impact on local residents will be implemented where necessary.
Community impact
During construction, you may notice an increase in people and vehicles in the area. This temporary workforce will provide an economic boost to local towns by spending on accommodation, food, and other local goods and services.
Safety
Our top priority is safety. We collaborate closely with our construction contractors, and Health and Safety Management Plans are developed to ensure safe construction practices and productive risk identification and mitigation processes.
What does a BESS look like and what are the visual impacts?
BESS facilities typically consist of containerised, modular systems that can be tailored to meet specific site and capacity needs.
The project is strategically located adjacent to existing electrical infrastructure, near the Jindera substation and transmission lines, to minimise visual impact.
Additionally, we will integrate vegetative screening, blending the facility with existing vegetation and adding extra screening as needed.
Artists Impression
The artist’s impression provides a visualisation of how the BESS could look. The image is indicative only and is subject to change based on further engineering, planning studies, and feedback from communities and stakeholders.
Artist’s impression of the proposed Kilnacroft Creek BESS.
Artist’s impression of the proposed Kilnacroft Creek BESS
Planning Pathway
We are at the early stages of planning and design.
A request for SEARs is being prepared for lodgement to DPHI, supported by a Scoping Report that includes project details, concept designs and plans, and preliminary technical assessments.
The Scoping Report will be made publicly available when SEARs is issued. Public Exhibition will occur following the EIS approval, where community members will be encouraged to make submissions.
To find out more about the proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in the Jindera area, come and speak to the Akaysha Energy team at our upcoming community drop-in session. Want more information?
Community drop-in session
Saturday 26 July, 2025 10:00am – 3:00pm
Location: Jindera Community Hub, 83 Urana Street, Jindera New South Wales 2642
Contact us
0434 257 402
community@akayshaenergy.com.au community.akayshaenergy.com/kilnacroft-creek-bess
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