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Located behind the meter at the Darling Downs Power Station, this pilot initiative was developed to explore how long-duration energy storage technologies could store energy for hours, or even days, and return it to the grid when needed most. The concept focused on two innovative battery chemistries — nickel hydrogen and liquid metal — to assess real-world performance, operational flexibility and integration feasibility with existing infrastructure.
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Pilot plants studied across two behind-the-meter 5 MW / 50 MWh long-duration energy storage systems.
265
Cycles per year, designed for daily full charge and discharge or indefinite standby.
5
Year lifecycle engineered for low maintenance and full performance.
Each pilot plant was intended to serve as a dedicated testbed for understanding the role emerging long-duration energy storage systems could play in balancing Australia’s evolving energy needs. The study focused on how these technologies could operate within an existing power station environment while supporting future grid stability, flexibility and low-carbon energy integration.
The engineering scope extended across electrical, civil and control domains. Verbrec developed design pathways covering battery management systems, HVAC, switchgear, DC systems, UPS, metering, electrical protection and lightning protection. Civil components included bulk earthworks, structural platforms, access roads and modular building design, all tailored to the site’s existing layout and remote location.
Trialling new technologies within a live operating power station introduced unique safety and compliance constraints. Verbrec assessed hazardous materials handling, isolation protocols, fire protection, hazardous area classification, control system logic, environmental discharge management, commissioning methodology and standby power demand calculations. All recommendations were developed under the ALARP principle, embedding safety and operational risk mitigation into every phase of the concept.
This concept study created a practical framework for assessing how emerging long-duration energy storage technologies could improve flexibility, support grid stability and strengthen future energy resilience.