Construction is set to commence on stage one of Quinbrook’s ‘Supernode’ project at Brendale, which will include the construction of one of Queensland’s largest Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

The BESS will have a capacity of 250MW/2hr — enabling the efficient storage of surplus solar and wind energy and aiding in the displacement of coal and other emissions-intensive generation sources.

Origin Energy has committed to the full capacity of stage one under a recently completed agreement.

The strategic location of the ‘Supernode’ project near the South Pine electricity substation will be a significant advantage for the 2,000 Megawatt BESS.

Following stage one, a data storage facility is planned to be added to the site.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “When we announced this Supernode almost two years ago, I said it showed what the future holds for Queensland’s digital and renewables economy and the creation of knowledge-based jobs.” He highlighted the importance of responsible emissions targets in supporting jobs in existing industries and creating new jobs in industries of the future.

Quinbrook Co-Founder David Scaysbrook stated: “The South Pine site is a unique and strategic location offering unparalleled power supply access and redundancy and is a testament to Quinbrook’s ability to source, fund and develop innovative projects for the benefit of our investors and provide tangible solutions to decarbonise power systems.”

Moreton Bay City Council Mayor Peter Flannery also expressed his support, as he stated: “Quinbrook’s battery storage system will be one of the largest installations in Australia, bringing economic benefits and offering greater energy security to Queenslanders.”

The project is part of the state government’s strategic investments in digital technology infrastructure and renewables.

The government previously provided $15 million to assist the Sunshine Coast Council in delivering Queensland’s first direct international data and telecommunications undersea network cable, which is now operational and benefiting projects such as the ‘Supernode’ project.