The world’s largest lithium battery came about through the successful partnership of two Clean Energy Council (CEC) members.
And it’s been a big win for the local community in South Australia according to the CEC, the peak industry body for Australia’s clean energy sector.
Neoen and Tesla worked together to produce the largest lithium-ion battery in the world which is now up and running in Jamestown, SA.
The CEC says the winning partnership between two CEC-accredited companies has subsequently had a positive impact on the local community.
Installation of the 100 MW/129 MWh battery is also set to bring clean, reliable energy to the region served by the Hornsdale Power Reserve.
According to the CEC, it’s on target to become a well-integrated part of the community.
Lithium battery project giving local people a voice
This globally significant battery storage project has given local people a real voice, the CEC claims.
Neoen has done this through collaboration with key stakeholders including state and local governments, businesses and communities.
The CEC says this has made the benefits of renewable energy more visible to all Australians.
More than 250 construction jobs were created over the life of the three-year project, a mini-boom in restaurants, accommodation and business start-ups in the area.
Now completed, the project will continue to support 10 onsite employees.
Community fund supports renewable excellence
Neoen has set up a community fund with $120,000 allocated to local initiatives over the next 20 years.
Projects in 2017 number more than 28 ventures, including restoration of a war memorial and support for the local football club.
Significantly, a new clean energy centre has resulted from a partnership between Neoen and the Canberra Institute of Technology,
The Renewable Energy Skilled Centre of Excellence will offer education and training within the clean energy sector.
Training for skilled workers will include student experience on-site at the Hornsdale Power Reserve.
Neoen is also supporting Flinders University research to help protect the habitat of the rare pygmy blue-tongue lizard.
The results show clean energy and battery storage are good for human beings, and for Australia’s wildlife too.
