Broken Hill BESS

Overview

The Broken Hill Battery Energy Storage System is a 50 MW / 50 MWh lithium-ion battery located in New South Wales, designed to enhance grid stability and support renewable energy integration. Operational since August 2024, it features advanced grid-forming inverter technology, enabling it to provide essential system strength services in a region characterised by a weak grid. Insulect contributed to the project's infrastructure by supplying 132kV Disconnectors, ensuring reliable high-voltage switching capabilities within the system. This project exemplifies the integration of innovative energy storage solutions to bolster renewable energy adoption and grid reliability.

Challenge

Broken Hill’s remote location means the power network can be less stable than in major cities. As more renewable energy is added, maintaining consistent voltage and system strength becomes more challenging.

The battery system needs to respond quickly to changes in the grid, storing energy when supply is high and releasing it when demand increases. At the same time, the electrical infrastructure must allow safe isolation for maintenance and operate reliably in a harsh environment.

Solution

Insulect supplied 132kV disconnectors designed for safe and dependable high-voltage switching.

These disconnectors allow operators to isolate parts of the system when needed, making maintenance safer and helping manage faults without affecting the entire network. They were integrated into the battery system’s grid connection to support controlled and reliable operation.

Benefits

With Insulect’s disconnectors in place, the battery system has a safer and more flexible electrical setup.

Operators can carry out maintenance with confidence, thanks to clear isolation points. The system can also respond more effectively to changes in the grid, helping improve stability in the region.

The equipment is built for durability, supporting reliable performance over time in demanding conditions.

Results

Since becoming operational, the Broken Hill Battery Energy Storage System has helped strengthen the local grid and support greater use of renewable energy.

It provides fast response when the network needs support, helping keep power stable for the community.

Insulect’s disconnectors play an important role behind the scenes, helping ensure the system operates safely, reliably, and as intended—supporting a more resilient energy future for the region.