North Yarragon BESS

ZEBRE is seeking to develop a 210 MW/4-8hr battery energy storage system on a rural property at Yarragon, in Victoria’s Gippsland region.

The project will have the capacity to provide the equivalent power for 66,000 Victorian homes and businesses.

The site of the project is on cleared grazing land along the Hazelwood-Rowville 220kV transmission easement. Following the retirement of the 1450MW Yallourn W Power Station in 2028, this 220kV system will be under-utilised at a time when there will be a significant need for dispatchable energy to meet peak demand periods - the proposed North Yarragon BESS responds to this need.

ZEBRE in the Community

ZEBRE is committed to delivering a Community Benefits Scheme that includes funding for local issues and prioritises the community, such as local procurement and employment. We are seeking community feedback to ensure the design and operation of the project reflects local needs.

Status

The project is currently under development. We have consulted with Baw Baw Shire Council, Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation, Country Fire Authority and the Department of Transport and Planning. Our development application has been accepted for further assessment by the Department of Transport and Planning and is now on public exhibition - the materials on exhibition can be accessed HERE. Our grid connection application has been submitted to VicGrid.

Timeline

Next steps for the project include: responding to submissions received on the development application through the public exhibition process and concluding development approval and grid connection approval processes. Tendering for major equipment supply and construction contracts will be undertaken prior to confirming the final business case. ZEBRE expects to commence construction in late 2027, subject to approvals, and be operational in early 2029.

Frequently Asked Questions

Renewable energy projects are not required to be located within designated REZs. The North Yarragon BESS site was selected for its proximity to existing transmission infrastructure, which enables efficient grid connection and helps replace capacity following the planned closure of Yallourn Power Station.

The site was chosen along the 220kV Yallourn–Hazelwood–Rowville transmission corridor, focusing on:

  • Suitable land with minimal constraints (e.g. topography, vegetation, waterways)
  • Distance from homes and community facilities (~800m to nearest residence)
  • Reduced environmental and safety risks compared to other locations

Yes. The project team has engaged with nearby landholders since 2025 and is continuing consultations following the submission of the planning application.

  • Letters and public notices have been issued.
  • Further information is being shared in response to community questions and feedback.

The project uses Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries, which are widely used and have a strong safety record.

Safety measures integrated into the BESS units include:

  • Advanced detection systems (heat, smoke, gas).
  • Automatic isolation and suppression systems in each unit.
  • Compliance with international and Australian safety standards.
  • Design features to contain fire within a single unit.

The facility will also meet CFA guidelines and will involve early engagement with emergency services.

The project is expected to:

  • Support the energy transition as coal generation retires.
  • Create 80–100 construction jobs.
  • Provide opportunities for local workers, suppliers, and First Nations engagement.
  • Help diversify regional employment opportunities.

The proposed subdivision covers approximately 18 hectares; however, the battery yard itself is limited to approximately 6ha with significant set aside for buffer areas. The battery yard proposes to accommodate up to 372 battery containers, although a smaller configuration may be built.

The project has undergone extensive independent studies, including:

  • Environmental and ecological assessments.
  • Bushfire and risk analysis.
  • Noise, traffic, and visual impact studies.
  • Cultural heritage assessment.

The BESS is expected to operate for 25–30 years. Once it comes time to decommission the facility:

  • Equipment will be removed and recycled.
  • Site infrastructure will be dismantled.
  • The land will be rehabilitated and returned to agricultural use.

Are you local?

Get in touch today and stay up to date with the latest news and updates of the North Yarragon BESS.

Email us at:

1300 936 466

Level 22, 727 Collins Street
DOCKLANDS VIC 3008 

zebre.com.au

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