Joel Joel Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)

The Joel Joel Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is located in Joel Joel, approximately 23km east of Stawell in Victoria's Wimmera region. The project will support Victoria’s clean energy transition and secure reliable, affordable power for Victorians.

Key Technical Specifications:

Location: Joel Joel, Victoria
Capacity: 250MW
Connection: Bulgana Terminal Station

Key Benefits of the Joel Joel BESS

Supporting Victoria’s Clean Energy Transition

The Joel Joel BESS is a pivotal component of Victoria's strategy to transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. By providing a reliable and flexible storage solution, it will help balance supply and demand, integrating more renewable energy into the grid and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Enhancing Grid Reliability and Affordability

In addition to its environmental benefits, the Joel Joel BESS will play a crucial role in securing reliable and affordable power for Victorians. By connecting directly to the existing 220kV network infrastructure, it can provide critical grid services, such as frequency regulation and peak load management, contributing to a stable and efficient electricity supply.

This infrastructure will help mitigate the impacts of power fluctuations and outages, aiming to deliver a more dependable energy system for households and businesses. Additionally, by utilising existing transmission lines, we can minimise construction impacts and reduce the need for new infrastructure development

Development Timeline

Land signed: The land for the Joel Joel BESS was successfully acquired in 2022.
Development Application: The development application received approval in August 2024, marking a key milestone in the project's progression.
Connection Agreement: The connection agreement with the existing 220kV network infrastructure is anticipated to be finalised by Q2 2025, ensuring seamless integration with the energy grid.
Construction Start: Construction of the Joel Joel BESS is scheduled to begin in Q3 2025, with a timeline set to meet operational deadlines.
Energisation: The BESS is projected to be fully energised by Q3 2027, at which point it will begin delivering vital energy storage services to Victoria.

Community

Community Benefit Fund

We are committed to building a positive legacy, together with the Joel Joel community and surrounding localities. We will establish a Community Benefit Fund to deliver lasting social and economic benefits.

Initiatives eligible for funding may include:

Community grants and investments
Scholarships, educational or vocational training
Local procurement, jobs and training
First Nations benefit sharing.

The Fund will be overseen by the Community Reference Group and the Northern Grampians Shire Council.

Community Reference Group

We are seeking to co-design a Community Benefit Fund to ensure we support meaningful community-driven initiatives that are inclusive and respond to local needs and priorities.
A Community Reference Group (CRG) will act as a key conduit for community involvement and represent local businesses, community and industry groups.
‍Interested in joining the CRG? Visit us at one of our upcoming drop-in sessions or email us at info@joeljoelbess.com.au.

Drop-in sessions

Join us and learn more about the project, ask questions, and share your feedback. Drop in at a time that best suits you.
When?

Tuesday, 26 August 2025 - 6pm-9pm
Wednesday, 27 August 2025 - 2pm-4pm
Wednesday, 27 August 2025 - 6pm-9pm

Where?

Joel Joel Public Hall - 214 Joel Joel Road, Joel Joel VIC 3384

Community survey

We are seeking to understand key priority areas for the local community. Feedback will help shape the Community Benefit Fund.
To participate in the survey, please click here. The survey closes on 12 September 2025.