January 25, 2025

Vena Energy Launches Tailem Bend 2 Project with 41.5MW BESS

Vena Energy has commissioned a 41.5MW battery energy storage system (BESS) at its Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project in South Australia. This addition thereby enhances the existing 87MW solar PV power plant, boosting the state’s renewable energy capacity.

The Tailem Bend 2 Project: A Milestone for Renewable Energy


The Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project combines both solar power generation and energy storage in one integrated system. The addition of the 41.5MW BESS will allow the facility to capture surplus renewable energy produced during periods of low demand and store it for later use during peak demand. This innovative solution enhances grid stability and ensures a more reliable energy supply for local communities.

The project will be connected to the National Electricity Market (NEM) through ElectraNet’s Tailem Bend Substation, with power flowing from the Coorong 2 Substation. Vena Energy's solar-plus-storage design is notable for its ability to allow the solar PV and battery components to operate independently, yet share a single grid connection. This groundbreaking feature is the first of its kind in the Australian market.

Owen Sela, Head of Australia for Vena Energy, highlighted the operational flexibility that the project offers. He explained: “Our system enables simultaneous export of solar power to the grid and independent operation of the battery for energy export or storage. By optimising existing grid infrastructure, we are enabling renewable energy to be dispatched when needed, delivering cost-effective power to South Australia.”

Supporting Local Communities and the Transition to Net Zero


The successful completion of the Tailem Bend 2 Hybrid Project is aligned with South Australia's ambitious renewable energy and emissions reduction goals. The project will play a crucial role in helping the state meet its 2030 emissions targets and contribute to Australia's broader goal of achieving net-zero emissions.

Vena Energy’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond energy production. The company aims to provide communities with a smarter and more resilient energy system. By storing surplus energy for later use, the project helps meet the electricity needs of local communities during high-demand periods, ensuring that renewable energy becomes a reliable and cost-effective resource.

Vena Energy has secured a long-term agreement with ZEN Energy. Through this partnership, ZEN Energy will purchase renewable energy from the Tailem Bend 2 project. The agreement is further supported by the South Australian Chamber of Mines and Energy (SACOME) Joint Electricity Purchasing Group, which will benefit several local businesses, including Foodland and IGA supermarkets, Viterra and Hillgrove Resources.

Vena Energy's Growing Portfolio in the Tailem Bend Region


Tailem Bend has become a hotspot for Vena Energy’s renewable energy projects. The company already operates the 95MW Tailem Bend 1 solar PV project, which was completed in 2019. When the Tailem Bend 2 project is fully integrated, the combined capacity of the two plants will reach 182MW, increasing to 223.5MW with the addition of battery storage.

The Tailem Bend region has witnessed significant growth in renewable energy infrastructure, with the completion of multiple projects by Vena Energy. These developments contribute to the ongoing transition towards renewable energy in South Australia and help strengthen the state’s energy security.

By leveraging innovative technologies and long-term partnerships, Vena Energy is not only supporting the transition to renewable energy but also ensuring that local communities and businesses benefit from a cleaner, more resilient energy system. 

Vena Energy’s investments in renewable energy are helping to accelerate Australia’s transition to a low-carbon energy future. The Tailem Bend 2 Project is an example of how solar power and battery storage can work together to provide a reliable, flexible energy system. As the company continues to expand its portfolio across Australia, it is set to play a key role in shaping the country’s energy landscape for years to come.


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