Overview
The relevant assessments required in preparation to lodge the Licence application for the proposed Blanche BESS project are currently underway. The consent authority for the proposed project is the South Australian Government.
Subject to obtaining the necessary approvals, construction of the proposed project would be expected to commence at the end of 2026, with operations due to begin at the end of 2028. The estimated investment value of the proposed project would be more than $220 million.
Subject to obtaining the necessary approvals, the Blanche BESS would comprise of shipping containers which are fitted with the battery units and control equipment associated with inverters and power transformers. The layout would be arranged in a grid pattern with enough space to allow access around each unit. A substation would be constructed within the project area to enable connection via underground cabling to the closely located Blanche Substation, owned by Electranet.
The Department of Energy and Mining (DEM) have deemed the project’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) are suitable for public consultation. The public consultation period is open from 22nd January 2026 and will run until 10th March 2026.
During this time, interested stakeholders can review the project documentation and provide comments. The DEM website is where all feedback on the project needs to be directed, see here.
Key Project
Details
Status
under-development
Location
Compton, South Australia
Project Approvals
The relevant assessments required as part of the licence application for the proposed project are currently underway, including the following key focus areas:
- Photomontage, elevation drawings, site plan and landscape plan
- Stormwater assessment
- Environmental noise assessment
- Preliminary fire risk assessment
- Environmental assessment
Public Consultation Period
The Department of Energy and Mining (DEM) have deemed the project’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and Statement of Environmental Objectives (SEO) are suitable for public consultation. The public consultation period is open from 22nd January 2026 and will run until 10th March 2026.
During this time, interested stakeholders can review the project documentation and provide comments. The DEM website is where all feedback on the project needs to be directed, see here.
Project Timeline
Late 2025
Target lodgement of application
Target for lodgement of the Associated Infrastructure Licence in accordance with the Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Act 2023 (SA) and Hydrogen and Renewable Energy Regulations 2024.
Late 2026
Targeted commencement of construction
Subject to obtaining the necessary approvals, targeted commencement of construction at the Blanche BESS Project site.
Late 2028
Targeted completion of the construction
Subject to obtaining the necessary approvals, targeted completion of the construction phase for the Blanche BESS project.
Community Survey
As part of our approach to community engagement for the project, we are seeking feedback from the community, to better understand local values and priorities and inform planning for potential initiatives to be undertaken within the local area close to the Blanche BESS Project site. The survey results will inform local community benefit sharing initiatives, where feasible and aligned with the company values, policies and capabilities. We appreciate local community members time to contribute to the survey. If you would like to discuss your feedback in further details, please contact us.