Hunter’s Liddell Battery moves ahead with arrival of second heavy-duty transformer
Two 254-tonne transformers have now been delivered to AGL’s Liddell Battery site, marking the next phase of construction for the 500 MW energy storage project set to support renewable integration in the Hunter from early 2026.
The construction of AGL’s 500 MW, two-hour duration battery at the former Liddell Power Station site has reached a new stage, with the delivery of the second of two 254-tonne transformers to the Hunter Energy Hub.
Transported on custom-built trailers, the transformers completed a nine-hour journey from the Port of Newcastle to Muswellbrook. The equipment will be central to the battery’s operation, enabling stored energy to be converted and fed into the grid when demand is high.
AGL General Manager Construction, Johan Myburgh, said around 147 workers are currently involved in building the Liddell Battery. “The project is progressing well and we remain on track for targeted first operations in early 2026,” he said.
The $750 million development is the first new build at AGL’s Hunter Energy Hub since the retirement of the coal-fired Liddell Power Station in April 2023. At peak construction, the project is expected to employ more than 150 people and has set targets for local engagement, including sourcing 95% of steel locally, supporting apprentices, and working with First Nations businesses.
Fluence is delivering the project as the engineering, procurement and construction contractor, while Lumea is handling the grid connection works, including a new 330/33 kV substation, a short 330 kV transmission line, and an extension to the existing switchyard.
The battery has secured a $35 million grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s Advancing Renewables Program and a Long-Term Energy Service Agreement arranged by AEMO Services for the NSW Government.
According to Lumea, "The next phase includes electrical installation, testing and commissioning of HV switchgear, and close coordination with the Australian Energy Market Operators (AEMO) ahead of full market integration."
Once operational, the Liddell Battery will store excess renewable generation and supply it back to the grid during peak demand periods, supporting grid stability and adding firming capacity as NSW transitions to cleaner energy sources.
