Samsung C&T Renewable Energy Australia has announced plans for a large 100 MW/400 MWh battery storage facility in Mangoplah, near Wagga Wagga in New South Wales. This news has attracted considerable attention in the industry because the company has chosen to use 108 Tesla Megapacks for the project. This marks a shift from its usual preference for its battery technology.
Many interested parties want to know why Samsung C&T chose Tesla Megapacks. Publications like Renew Economy, along with sources such as SawyerMerritt, have tried to understand this choice, but Samsung C&T has not provided an official comment so far. The Mangoplah project is an important step for Australia’s overall renewable energy goals. Its strategic location and the reliability of Tesla’s battery technology are expected to help the region’s clean energy transition. The facility should improve grid stability, support the integration of variable renewable energy sources, and provide essential energy management capabilities, all of which will assist Australia in moving toward a more sustainable energy future.
As part of the regulatory process, Samsung C&T has submitted its application under the federal Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act. If it gets the necessary approvals, construction of the Mangoplah facility is expected to begin in 2027. Commercial operations will likely start by 2028 or 2029.
This project is not the only effort by Samsung C&T in Australia’s growing renewable energy sector. The company is actively working on several other major projects across the country. One project includes a 200 MW/800 MWh standalone battery at the Romani site in New South Wales, which is reportedly progressing well. However, another planned project, a 250 MW Romani solar farm meant to be paired with a 150 MW/600 MWh battery, was cancelled after it could not secure the necessary access rights within the South West Renewable Energy Zone.
Additionally, Samsung C&T is involved in the ambitious 1000 MW Western Giga Energy hydrogen project in Geraldton, Western Australia. Its work in various clean energy sectors, including significant battery storage and hydrogen production, shows Samsung C&T’s commitment to supporting Australia’s renewable energy goals and efforts in developing better energy storage solutions nationwide. The company’s actions demonstrate a clear long-term vision for its role in Australia’s changing energy landscape.
