We delivered the detailed design for critical transmission infrastructure connecting a new battery energy storage system (BESS) at the former Liddell Power Station, helping support grid reliability and Australia’s transition to a lower-carbon energy future.
Supporting the energy transition at Liddell
Australia’s energy sector continues to evolve. The integration of new renewable and storage assets is critical to maintaining a secure and reliable electricity network. Partnering with Enerven, we delivered detailed design services for the Liddell BESS Connection Project, supporting the connection of a large-scale battery energy storage system at the former Liddell Power Station in New South Wales.
The project forms part of the site’s transformation from a coal-fired generation asset into infrastructure that supports the future energy mix, helping strengthen network resilience while enabling the energy transition.
Delivering complex infrastructure in a constrained environment
The project required the complex connection of transmission infrastructure within a highly constrained and established brownfield environment. Existing electrical infrastructure, underground services, operational constraints and limited available space created significant design challenges.
Designing new infrastructure while managing these constraints required careful coordination across multiple interfaces and stakeholders.
Finding smarter solutions to improve project outcomes
We delivered the detailed design for three key components of the connection infrastructure:
- A 330kV bay extension within the existing Liddell Substation
- A new 330kV transmission line
- A greenfield 330kV/33kV substation connecting the battery energy storage system to the network
We worked closely with Enerven and other stakeholders to carefully manage clearances, asset interfaces and constructability requirements. For the new transmission line, the team designed five 330kV steel structures across a relatively short alignment while complying with the safety and clearance requirements of existing transmission and sub-transmission assets. Within the new substation footprint, we improved the layout to maximise available space while maintaining operational and maintenance requirements.
Collaborating early to improve constructability and value
Our approach extended beyond delivering the reference design. Working collaboratively with the client and stakeholders, the team identified opportunities to improve constructability, reduce complexity and deliver better value for the project.
One key innovation involved the design of the new bay extension within the existing Liddell Substation. Rather than adopting the original reference design approach, which involved constructing a new L-shaped gantry structure, the project team developed an alternative solution that extended the existing rigid busbar arrangement. This reduced construction complexity, improved efficiency and delivered cost savings while maintaining operational and technical requirements.
The project also required careful consideration of program and commissioning requirements. We worked closely with the contractor to align design delivery with procurement, construction and commissioning milestones, so that the project remained on track and was successfully delivered.
This collaborative and solutions-focused approach enabled the team to respond to evolving project needs while maintaining a strong focus on safety, quality and constructability.
Strengthening grid reliability and enabling cleaner energy
The Liddell BESS Connection Project demonstrates the important role transmission and grid connection infrastructure play in supporting Australia’s energy transition. By enabling a new battery energy storage system to connect to the electricity network, the project improves grid stability, increases system flexibility and supports the integration of cleaner energy sources.
The project required delivering complex transmission and substation design solutions in challenging operating environments, achieved through collaborative work with clients to deliver the best project outcomes.
Through technical excellence, innovation and strong partnerships, the successful delivery of the connection infrastructure has helped transform a former coal-fired power station site into an asset supporting the future of Australia’s energy system.