The massive 850-megawatt (MW) Waratah Super Battery in New South Wales has achieved a significant operational milestone this week, reaching its full rated output for the first time since a transformer incident and successfully completing crucial grid stability tests. This achievement by Akaysha Energy marks a pivotal step in securing the state’s energy supply as Australia accelerates its transition to a renewable-dominated grid.
On Monday, September 7, 2026, the 850 MW / 1,650 MWh Waratah Super Battery, located at the former Munmorah coal-fired power station site on the NSW Central Coast, briefly hit its full 850 MW output. This was followed by a second System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS) test on Friday, September 11, where the battery discharged an average of 700 MW over a two-hour period, demonstrating its capability to act as a vital “shock absorber” for the grid.
“Great day of testing today up at the Waratah Super Battery. SIPS test #2 conducted at 700MW. Also had a bonus 850MW charge for a short time. Plant performance was good and is a testament to the whole Akaysha Energy team and all our partners for the endeavour and perseverance to get to this point. Onwards ….” – Akaysha Energy CEO Nick Carter
Overcoming Operational Hurdles
The Waratah Super Battery, owned and operated by BlackRock-backed Akaysha Energy, was designed as a SIPS asset under contract to transmission operator Transgrid. Its primary role is to allow transmission lines to import greater amounts of power from regional generators, thereby enhancing grid stability and reliability.
Earlier this year, the project faced a setback due to a “catastrophic failure” of its High Voltage Transformer 3 (HVT3). However, a replacement transformer has since been installed and energised, enabling the battery to progressively return to its full operational capacity. In June 2026, the facility had already returned to 700 MW and its full 1,680 MWh energy capacity following the recommissioning of HVT2, representing 82% of its total power rating. The recent full output and successful SIPS tests confirm its recovery and readiness for full contractual obligations.
The Critical Role of SIPS
The SIPS contract is crucial for the National Electricity Market (NEM), particularly for NSW, which is experiencing the retirement of ageing coal-fired power stations. The Waratah Super Battery’s ability to provide rapid, large-scale power injection or absorption helps manage grid disturbances, preventing instability and ensuring a consistent power supply. This functionality is increasingly vital as more intermittent renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind, come online.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has consistently highlighted the growing need for firming capacity and long-duration energy storage to support the grid’s transformation. The 2026 Integrated System Plan (ISP) calls for almost 40 GW of storage by 2050, emphasising a mix of short, medium, and long-duration solutions. The Waratah battery contributes significantly to the short-to-medium duration requirement, providing crucial services that help integrate renewable generation and reduce reliance on fossil fuels during peak demand. For consumers, this translates to improved reliability and, in the long term, downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.
Broader Implications for Australia’s Energy Future
The successful commissioning and testing of the Waratah Super Battery underscores Australia’s rapid advancements in grid-scale battery storage. The nation’s grid-scale battery capacity has more than doubled over the past year, exceeding 9 GW in the NEM. This growth is essential for meeting Australia’s ambitious clean energy targets, including the federal government’s goal of 82% renewable electricity by 2030.
Projects like the Waratah Super Battery also pave the way for more sophisticated energy management systems. The integration of large-scale batteries with renewable generation allows for the efficient storage of surplus solar energy during the day and its release during evening peaks, optimising grid performance. This concept extends to smaller-scale applications, where home batteries are increasingly being integrated into virtual power plants (VPPs) to provide similar benefits at a distributed level. Readers interested in optimising their home battery savings through VPPs can explore our guide: Maximise Your Home Battery Savings: Earn $1,000+ Annually with a VPP in 2026.
While the Waratah Super Battery is a utility-scale asset, the underlying principles of energy storage and grid support are equally relevant to residential setups. As the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program continues to offer discounts of around 30% on eligible systems, more Australian households are installing batteries to enhance their energy independence and resilience. For those considering adding a battery to their existing solar setup, understanding the available rebates and compatibility is key. Our comprehensive guide, Best Home Batteries for Australian Homes 2026: Performance, Warranties & Value Compared, provides detailed insights into current market offerings.
Akaysha Energy is now awaiting the verification of these tests to fully activate its SIPS contract, a step that will solidify the Waratah Super Battery’s long-term contribution to NSW’s energy security and the broader NEM’s renewable energy transition. The project’s journey highlights the complexities and critical importance of large-scale energy storage in building a robust and sustainable energy future for Australia.
Current Battery Storage Prices in Australia (Indicative, Post-Rebate, Installed)
| Battery System Size (kWh) | Estimated Net Price (AUD, Post-Rebate) |
|---|---|
| 5 to 6 kWh | $4,500 – $7,000 |
| 10 kWh | $7,000 – $11,000 |
| 13 to 15 kWh | $9,000 – $13,000 |
| Around 20 kWh | $12,000 – $19,000 |
*Prices are indicative and can vary based on brand, installer, location, and specific installation requirements. They include the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program discount.