Hume North BESS

A proposed sustainable energy storage system near Albury, New South Wales

Location: Lake Hume Village, NSW
Development Progress: Planning and approval
Power Network: Transgrid

Project description

Large-scale battery energy storage systems will play an important role in the energy transition, by supporting renewable energy and providing stability and firming capacity to the National Electricity Grid. The Hume North BESS is a battery energy storage system that will provide up to 75 megawatts /150 megawatt-hours of on demand power.

Why was this site selected?

The proposed battery will be a standalone project, located approximately 400m away from the existing Hume Hydro Power Station, at the Hume Dam located approximately 20km upstream of Albury-Wodonga.

The site is located on land zoned RU2 Rural Landscape, next to a wastewater treatment plant. Natural vegetation and topography provide a visual screen for the project.

The electricity from the project will be transferred via a new termination into the existing TransGrid 132kV transmission line to further reduce impact, with minimal additional cabling to connect to the line.

Will this project benefit the local Lake Hume community?

We're proud to stand behind efforts that make a difference in our local community. In 2024, the Project supported:

• Lake Hume Rotary Club, $5,000 for the Lake Hume Cycle Challenge that raised funds towards the Albury Woodonga Regional Cancer Centre Trust Fund.

• Woolshed Thurgoona Landcare Group , $5,000 for revegetation of Box Gum Grassy Woodland in Thurgoona, Wirlinga and Table Top areas.

Once the Project is established, we will continue to share the benefits of this project by supporting a community benefit fund for local community groups.

What is the development planning and environmental process?

The Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) was submitted in November 2024, following extensive community consultation and a series of technical and environmental studies.

The EIS was exhibited for public comment from November to December 2024. During this period, all interested parties could review the EIS and provide feedback.

Information on the stages can be found via the NSW Planning Portal:

https://www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/major-projects/projects/hume-north-battery-en

The Project is classified as a State Significant Development (SSD) and will follow the SSD planning pathway.

Why is this project important?

Carbon Reduction

• Storing excess energy from renewable sources such as solar and wind allows for its use during periods of high demand, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting cleaner energy consumption.

Transition from Coal

• Supports the retirement of Australia’s aging coal-fired power stations

• Paves the way for Australia’s transition to Net Zero
  

Employment

• Approximately 50 full-time jobs are expected to be created at the peak of construction.

• The Project is anticipated to contribute approximately $12.1 million in gross value added (GVA) to the Murray region and $21.79 million to the rest of New South Wales (NSW) during its construction phase. These economic benefits are expected to primarily support the manufacturing, construction, professional, scientific, and technical services sectors. Additionally, construction-related spending is projected to stimulate job creation as it flows through both the Australian and NSW economies.

Grid Stabilisation

• The Project supports greater renewable energy penetration by storing excess solar and wind generation when supply exceeds demand. It then discharges that energy during peak periods or when renewable output drops, helping to smooth variability and maintain grid stability.

Progress so far and what's ahead

Development activities are ongoing with preliminary designs, assessments and engagement occurring.

▶ Mid 2023
Neighbour consultation commenced

▶ Late 2023 – Early 2024
Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) compiled and community engagement

▶ Nov 2024
Public exhibition of EIS

▶July 2025
Responses to Submissions

▶ August 2025
Project approval expected

▶ Q1 2026
Construction begins

▶ Q1 2027
Operational

The timings provided are indicative only, and subject to change during the planning application.

There's more to the story — click below to read our Fact Sheets or here for our most FAQs

North Bess Factsheet - Key Features

North Bess Factsheet - Biodiversity

North Bess Factsheet - Benefits

Foresight wishes to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land on which the proposed Hume North BESS is located, the Wiradjuri Nation, and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and emerging.