Ivanhoe BESS

About Ivanhoe Colliery 

Ivanhoe Colliery is a legacy mine site located approximately 22 km north-west of Lithgow and is accessible via Boulder Road.

Ivanhoe Colliery is comprised of 4 former coal mining operations known as:

  • Ivanhoe No.1
  • Ivanhoe No.1 Open Cut
  • Ivanhoe No.2 
  • Ivanhoe North

Ivanhoe Coal Pty Limited (Ivanhoe Coal) is a wholly owned subsidiary of Centennial Coal Company Ltd (Centennial Coal).

The area surrounding Ivanhoe consists of various operating and non-operating open cut and underground coal mines, mining infrastructure, Mt Piper Power Station (MPPS) and electricity transmission infrastructure. 

Ivanhoe BESS Project 

The Ivanhoe Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a proposed grid scale energy storage project to be developed by Ivanhoe Development Pty Ltd (a Centennial Coal entity) within the Ivanhoe No.1 Open Cut.

The project will deliver up to 700 MW of discharge capacity and 2.8 GWh (four hours) of storage, supporting the stability and reliability of the National Electricity Market. Located on previously disturbed mining land and positioned adjacent to major transmission infrastructure including the Transgrid Mt Piper Substation, the project offers an efficient connection point to the grid. 

The BESS will utilise proven lithium-ion battery technology and include supporting infrastructure such as a substation, switch rooms, control buildings, internal roads and grid connection works. The development will repurpose post mining land, contribute to regional economic growth, and provide an important firming asset to support Australia’s transition to renewable energy.

Key Features of the Project

Strategic Location: Sited on previously disturbed mining land, avoiding impacts on high‑value greenfield areas. Adjacent to Mt Piper Substation, enabling efficient and cost‑effective grid connection. Located away from residential receptors, reducing potential amenity impacts.

Project Scale & Performance:  700 MW / 2.8 GWh four‑hour storage system providing significant grid‑firming capability. Supports grid stability by storing renewable energy and dispatching during peak demand. Designed for a 25‑year operational life, with potential for upgrades or extension.

Alignment With State & National Energy Goals: Supports NSW’s transition toward net‑zero emissions and increased renewable energy penetration. Helps replace retiring coal generation with reliable, dispatchable clean energy storage. Contributes to Commonwealth targets under the Paris Agreement and Capacity Investment Scheme.

Infrastructure & Design: Modern lithium‑ion battery technology with integrated fire detection and suppression systems. Includes a new or upgraded access road, internal roads, control rooms and switchgear buildings. Grid connection via underground or overhead lines, subject to final design with Transgrid.

Community & Economic Benefits: Creates 80–100 jobs during construction and ongoing skilled employment during operation. Generates demand for local goods, materials and services, boosting regional economic activity. 

Environmental Considerations: Repurposes a legacy mining site, contributing to sustainable post‑mining land use. Minimises new disturbance by using rehabilitated land and integrating with existing infrastructure. Avoids significant impacts on nearby conservation areas through careful design refinement.

Project Status

Completed
Project Announced
In Progress
Scoping Report
In Progress
Secretary's Environmental Assessment Requirements (SEARs) issued
In Progress
Preparation of Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)
Pending
EIS submission and exhibition
Pending
Response to submissions
Pending
Planning Approval

Community Consultation

Centennial Coal believes that successful projects are built on collaboration and understanding. That’s why we’re committed to engaging with the community throughout every stage of our development projects.

Community consultation is at the heart of our approach, as we recognise the invaluable insights and perspectives that residents, businesses, and stakeholders bring to the table. By fostering open dialogue and transparent communication, we ensure that our projects meet regulatory requirements and align with the needs and aspirations of the communities we serve. 

Stay in the loop

Contact

approvals@centennialcoal.com.au

0436 034 401

Ron Bush
General Manager
Development & Approvals