BESS
BESS
Avenis Energy is proposing to develop a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) approximately 11 km northwest of Coffs Harbour Town Centre in Karangi and adjacent to the TransGrid 330kV Substation.
The purpose of the development is to support the National Electricity Market during peak demand and during adverse network operation. It will ensure stability of supply throughout the region. The Project will involve the development, construction, operation, and eventual decommissioning.
The Karangi BESS is expected to have a capacity of 240MW with a 4-hour storage duration – this is equivalent to powering around 375,000* households for four hours.The project will incorporate the latest industry technology and adhere to all safety and hazard regulations set by the State and Australian Government.
The project's design and layout will comply with local planning laws, RFS guidelines, and be carefully structured to minimize potential environmental impacts. It will also protect local cultural heritage, and address concerns of neighbouring communities.
The Karangi BESS would include the following key components:
• Battery units
• Inverter stations
• Transformers
• Switch rooms
• Switch yard
• On-site water storage
• Fire suppressions systems
• Security fencing• Parking site
• Site office and amenities for operational use.
During construction, temporary infrastructure including construction facilities, site offices and amenities, tool and material storage sheds, construction staff car parking, component laydown areas and truck parking and unloading would also be required and commercial opportunities around Coffs Harbour.

Given the significant potential that the development has in contributing to the clean energy transition and climate action targets of the state, the Karangi BESS proposal has been classified as a State Significant Development (SSD) by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI).
During the early stages of the development application process, a Scoping Report will be submitted to DPHI to identify the technical studies and key assessment areas to be addressed within the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS). Following DPHI’s review and evaluation of the Scoping Report, the Secretary’s Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) will be issued, outlining the specific matters to be addressed in the EIS, including environmental, social, and technical considerations.
The EIS will provide comprehensive documentation of specialist assessments and detailed planning information relating to the Sunshine Estate BESS, addressing all requirements specified within the SEARs. Once completed, the EIS will be submitted to DPHI for assessment, after which the Minister for Planning will determine whether to grant development consent for the Project.
You can also learn more about the SSD process here NSW Government’s Department of Planning Website
The Karangi BESS will improve energy security by reducing the risk of power outages in the region whilst ensuring firmed power supply to the local network.
During the construction phase, up to 150 workers will be required, with a large proportion of them local contractors and suppliers, where possible.
The operational phase will create up to 3 ongoing full-time roles for the approximate 35-year lifetime of the BESS.
The BESS represents a positive diversification of the local economy and will bring investment to the area. It will deliver additional indirect economic opportunities to local businesses, including local grocery stores, restaurants, cafés, accommodation providers,petrol stations, vehicle servicing, pubs, catering, cleaning companies,tradespersons, tool and equipment suppliers and many other businesses.
Avenis Energy is committed to supporting community benefit schemes in the local area and value the opportunity to make a positive impact. We welcome any suggestions and look forward to collaborating with local partners to ensure our efforts align with the community's needs.
While community information sessions are one way to share your views, we understand they don’t suit everyone. That’s why we’re providing multiple opportunities for you to have your say.
We encourage you to complete the Karangi Community Feedback Survey here.
We welcome input from all members of the community and will continue to offer flexible ways for you to share your thoughts throughout the project.
Avenis Energy are hosting two community information drop-in sessions in the coming months, dates and times to be confirmed.
Members of the Avenis Energy team will be there to discuss the Project and answer questions.
karangi@avenisenergy.com.au