SEC secures new battery deal to strengthen Victoria's energy supply

State−owned energy company SEC has secured access to a new 102-megawatt, four-hour battery at the Glenrowan Solar Farm in Victoria's north-east, helping store energy for use when demand is highest.

SEC currently provides an offtake to the 102 MW capacity solar farm, owned by Pacific Partners, and has today finalised a 10-year offtake agreement for the solar farm and battery project, replacing the existing arrangement.

Securing this agreement will add significant storage capacity to SEC's growing energy portfolio, strengthening its ability to supply government, and commercial and industrial customers, across Victoria.

By making more energy available when it is needed most, the new battery will help support grid reliability and put downward pressure on wholesale electricity prices.

SEC CEO Chris Miller said the agreement would help SEC meet its customers' energy needs as Victoria's transition to renewable energy gathers pace.

"Energy storage is critical to ensuring our customers have access to affordable, reliable electricity when they need it.," Mr Miller said.

"This agreement will allow us to make better use of the solar energy generated during the day and strengthen our ability to supply customers during periods of high demand."

"We are building a diverse portfolio that brings generation and storage together to support Victoria's energy future."

SEC supplies renewable electricity, backed by storage, to more than 4,400 sites across Victoria, meeting approximately five per cent of the state's total electricity demand.

The Glenrowan battery is expected to proceed to construction following financial close, supporting local employment during development and construction.

Pacific Partnerships General Manager – Energy, David Lovell, said the SEC agreement continues the company’s strong relationship with the Victorian Government.

"We value our long-term and successful partnership with the SEC, which builds on the success of our solar farm being the first of those selected for VRET 2 support to start generating renewable energy for Victoria," Mr Lovell said.

“We look forward to similar success as we undertake our first large scale BESS hybridisation, further enhancing the solar farm’s track record of high availability levels and strong operational history since May 2024," he said.

"Our agreement with SEC provides an important foundation for progressing the battery towards construction and delivering future investment and employment opportunities in Victoria's north-east."