In a pioneering move within Australia’s renewable energy sector, Wärtsilä is set to deliver the country’s largest DC-coupled hybrid battery system. This project marks Wärtsilä’s second venture of its kind in Australia and represents a significant milestone in the National Electricity Market (NEM). Once operational, the system will have the capacity to supply power to 120,000 homes and businesses, significantly advancing Australia’s renewable energy goals. Wärtsilä plans to book the order in the fourth quarter of 2025.
DC-coupled systems are becoming a cornerstone of modern renewable energy strategies. By integrating solar generation with battery storage using a DC/DC converter, these systems minimize energy loss, capturing solar power that might otherwise be wasted. This design not only improves financial viability and system efficiency but also enhances grid stability amid increasing solar and wind energy curtailment.
Achieving the Generator Performance Standards (GPS) approval was a crucial step for this project, facilitating the integration of renewable generation and storage on a large scale. Wärtsilä’s optimisation technology is instrumental in the development of this innovative DC-coupled system, which is backed by a 20-year service agreement.
“This project is significantly larger than our earlier DC-coupled project, underscoring the need for this type of technology in expanding at scale,” stated David Hebert, Vice President of Global Sales Management, Wärtsilä Energy Storage. “It’s particularly exciting to work on the largest DC-coupled project in the country; DC-coupled technology is a breakthrough for hybrid renewable plants and a critical step towards establishing a financially viable renewable energy future. The project is a prime example of how hybrid renewable energy and storage solutions can help stabilise Australia’s grid while advancing decarbonisation goals.”
Central to the project is Wärtsilä’s intelligent controls and optimisation software, GEMS. This system will manage the integration of the energy storage system and solar assets with the grid’s requirements. The GEMS Hybrid Power Plant Controller (PPC) will ensure seamless coordination between the solar farm and storage system, optimizing energy management and meeting grid response times.
Wärtsilä, recognized as a Tier-1 integrator in Australia, is expanding its footprint with this project, which will be its ninth Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) site in the nation. This development will increase the company’s local capacity to 1.5GW/5.5GWh and is expected to be operational by 2028, contributing to Australia’s target of net-zero emissions by 2045.
Media contact:
Amanda Young
Director, Marketing & Communications
Wärtsilä Energy Storage
amanda.young@wartsila.com
Image caption: Wärtsilä to deliver Australia’s largest DC-coupled hybrid battery system © Wärtsilä Corporation
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About Wärtsilä Energy Storage
Wärtsilä Energy Storage is leading the charge towards a 100% renewable energy future, aiding in global decarbonization through advanced technology and grid expertise. Their offerings include high-performance hardware, intelligent controls, and comprehensive lifecycle support, ensuring lasting value and operational efficiency. Trusted by top-tier utilities and operators, Wärtsilä’s solutions are designed for real-world performance, enhancing grid stability and flexibility.
About Wärtsilä
Wärtsilä is a global frontrunner in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for marine and energy markets. With a strong focus on sustainable technology and services, the company aids customers in improving both environmental and economic performance. Wärtsilä operates in over 230 locations across 77 countries, with a dedicated team of 18,300 professionals driving decarbonisation. In 2024, the company reported net sales of EUR 6.4 billion and is listed on Nasdaq Helsinki. Learn more at www.wartsila.com.
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