Vena Energy has begun construction of a 408MWh battery energy storage system in Tailem Bend, South Australia.
The Tailem Bend 3 BESS, scheduled for commissioning in 2027, will rank among the largest battery storage projects in the state, reinforcing South Australia’s renewable energy ambitions and its target of net zero emissions by 2050.
The system is designed to strengthen grid stability by storing surplus generation and dispatching electricity during peak demand, enhancing reliability and resilience.
Owen Sela, head of Australia at Vena Energy, confirmed this will be the company’s third energy storage project in the country.
“This 408MWh system adds substantial storage capacity that will support South Australia’s world-leading renewable energy adoption, while aligning with our commitment to developing utility-scale renewable energy and storage assets that contribute to Australia’s clean energy transition,” he said.
The project forms the third stage of Vena Energy’s Tailem Bend energy precinct. It follows the 127MWdc solar project delivered in 2019 and the Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project, which added 118MWdc of solar in 2023 and a 41.5 MWh battery in 2024.
Construction of Tailem Bend 3 will generate new employment opportunities, with Vena Energy pledging to maximise local jobs and training for residents and First Nations communities.
