State’s biggest renewable battery given the green light

Published on 24 September 2025

The Allan Labor Government has approved Victoria’s largest-ever battery storage project – a one-gigawatt facility that will deliver cleaner, cheaper, and more reliable renewable energy for hundreds of thousands of homes.

Pacific Green’s $1.3 billion Portland Energy Park has been fast-tracked through the Labor Government’s Development Facilitation Program.

The project will include four 250-megawatt battery ‘parks’ – enough to power 345,000 homes during peak demand – making it the state’s biggest battery and one of the world’s largest renewable energy storage facilities. An on-site terminal station will also connect the facility to the grid via existing transmission lines.

The battery will soak up and store cheap renewable energy during the day that can be pumped back into the electricity grid at times of peak demand, helping to deliver cheaper energy bills and reliable electricity to Victorian homes and businesses.

Three hundred jobs will be created during the construction phase, and there will be 60 ongoing jobs once the energy park becomes operational.

Pacific Green was required to demonstrate that the development will meet conditions related to biodiversity, bushfire safety, and noise, and will also include upgrades to nearby roads as part of the works.

The Development Facilitation Program was expanded last year to include renewable energy projects, helping get cleaner and cheaper energy infrastructure off the ground faster. Since then, more than $6 billion worth of renewable energy projects have been fast-tracked across Victoria.

Quotes

Helen Havercroft, CEO Glenelg Shire Council:
“This battery project is a major investment in Glenelg Shire’s future. It supports our transition to a cleaner energy economy while creating lasting opportunities for local workers and businesses.”

“This battery project is a major milestone for our region. It places Glenelg Shire at the centre of Victoria’s clean energy future.”

Cr Karen Stephens, Mayor of Glenelg Shire Council:
“Glenelg Shire is home to a skilled workforce and a strong community. This project builds on that foundation and supports our shared vision for a diverse, sustainable and thriving local economy.”

“The Portland Energy Park will deliver lasting benefits for our community—jobs, infrastructure, and a stronger energy network.”