The Waratah Super Battery, one of the most powerful battery energy storage systems in the world, is now fully operational and providing New South Wales with clean and affordable energy.
Constructed on the footprint of the former Munmorah coal-fired power station, the facility boasts an active capacity of 850 megawatts (MW) and can store 1,680 megawatt hours (MWh) of electricity. At full output, the super battery is capable of powering up to 340,000 NSW households during peak demand windows.
Functioning as a massive shock absorber for the state’s electricity grid, the system utilises advanced digital architecture to detect network disturbances in milliseconds, such as line outages caused by bushfires, lightning strikes, or fallen trees, and rapidly dispatch power to maintain grid stability.
The project received final operational approval from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). Global technology firm Hitachi Energy supplied the smart control software and 288 power conversion systems, while grid operator Transgrid delivered required network upgrades and integrated the facility into its System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS).
“The Waratah Super Battery is a game changer for NSW,” said Energy Minister Penny Sharpe.
“As ageing coal-fired power stations retire, this project will help keep the lights on for homes and businesses while enabling more renewable energy to flow through the grid.”
Hitachi Energy Australia Managing Director Bernard Norton said the battery paves the way for the state’s transition into a greener future.
“It demonstrates how large-scale battery storage can operate as a strategic grid asset, providing fast-acting support to the grid during critical moments to maintain reliability,” he said.
“It’s a giant digital shock absorber, bringing extra resilience and system strength to the electricity network.”
Approximately 1,000 workers contributed to the design and construction of the facility, including 170 on-site personnel at Munmorah.
Hunter and Central Coast representatives praised the redevelopment of the former industrial site into a modern, clean energy hub, ensuring the region continues to serve as the backbone of NSW power generation.