Octopus Australia is pleased to announce that it has successfully obtained approval for the Generator Performance Standards (GPS) at Fulham Hybrid Battery project, a 128MWh DC-coupled battery and 80MW Solar Farm. As one of the first DC-coupled hybrid battery projects to secure such approval within the National Electricity Market (NEM), this milestone marks a significant achievement.
The hybrid DC-coupled technology involves solar panels and batteries sharing the same inverter, with the batteries distributed throughout the site. This means that fewer inverters are required resulting in a cheaper, more efficient system. Furthermore, DC-coupled batteries are able to maximise renewable energy generation by directing excess solar to the battery to enable firmed green electricity production.
The accomplishment demonstrates Octopus Australia’s expertise and commitment to delivering cutting-edge renewable energy projects to accelerate Australia’s energy transition. It also represents an integral step towards achieving financial close for Fulham, which is anticipated by the end of 2024.
Co-Managing Director, Renewables Australia, Sonia Teitel commented “We are extremely proud of our team for achieving this significant milestone. We look forward to seeing this project commence construction in the next 12 months, delivering benefits to the Gippsland community and contributing more broadly to electricity decarbonisation in Victoria.”
The 12-month process to secure GPS approval was part of the Connections Reform Initiative with AEMO and AusNet. This initiative involved early engagement between all parties, fostering a collaborative approach to the study and design of the new DC-coupled technology, supported by technology company Wärtsilä and SMA Australia.
About Fulham Hybrid Battery and Solar Farm
Fulham Hybrid Battery and Solar Farm is a 128MWh DC-coupled battery and 80MW Solar Farm located in Fulham, Victoria, Australia, approximately 10km West of Sale in Gippsland. The project, due to commence construction in early 2025, has a power purchase agreement (PPA) from the Victorian State Government awarded under the Second Victorian Renewable Energy Target Auction.
