TESLA will build the world’s biggest lithium ion battery to be installed at a wind farm in South Australia before the end of the year.

 

The successful tender was announced in the South Australian capital Adelaide yestarday as a partnership between Tesla and French renewable energy company Neoen for the 100MW/129MWh battery at Neoen’s Hornsdale Wind Farm in the state’s Mid North.

 

It follows a claim by Tesla CEO Elon Musk in March that he could stabilise South Australia’s energy supply in 100 days.

 

South Australia leads the nation in the uptake of wind energy and roof-top solar with renewable sources, accounting for more than 40 per cent of the electricity generated in the state. However, the closure of two coal-fired power stations in recent years has increased South Australia’s reliance on energy supplies from the eastern Australian states, particularly in times of peak demand.

 

As part of the agreement, Tesla and the South Australian Government have set the starting date for the 100 days from when the grid interconnection agreement has been signed.

 

The battery will operate at all times, providing stability services for renewable energy, and will be available to provide emergency back-up power if a shortfall in energy is predicted. It is expected to be installed by the end of the year – in time for the next Australian summer.