Supernode is bringing together the future of data and energy through a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and data centre being developed by Quinbrook.
Supernode is being constructed in three stages, with Stage 1 now online, and will be one of the largest BESS installations in Australia and the world. It has a total capacity over Stages 1, 2 and 3 of 780 MW / 3074 MWh - that’s equal to the energy required for around 300,000 to 750,000 homes, depending on demand.
The battery system will support Queensland’s electricity network reliability by storing excess energy from the grid, when solar production is at its peak during the day. This energy can be released back into the grid during times of low supply or high demand, helping reduce electricity waste and maintain a more efficient, secure and reliable energy system.
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20-year lifespan
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Local jobs and contracting opportunities
Location
Supernode is located next to the South Pine Switchyard on Kremzow Road in Brendale, which is on the northern outskirts of Brisbane in Queensland.
Clean and green
The project is a game-changer for the renewables industry in Queensland.
By storing excess renewable energy during the day for release at night, the project will help decarbonise energy-intensive industry and support Queensland's future as a technology and renewables powerhouse.
Artist impression: Supernode BESS upon completion
Frequently Asked Questions
A BESS stores energy from the grid when demand is low. The energy can then be released back into the grid during periods of high demand. By storing excess energy, a BESS helps with fluctuations in our power supply caused by weather events or increased demand, ensuring network reliability.
The BESS is made up of:
- Batteries: individual low-voltage, rechargeable battery cells that store energy
- Modules: batteries are arranged in racks within a battery module, and then modules are grouped together to form a battery unit
- Containers: similar to shipping containers, these steel boxes house several battery units and protect them from the environment
Technology within the BESS is also used to:
- monitor and protect each battery cell
- manage energy charge and discharge
- convert electricity
- keep the BESS running safely.
The BESS supports the Queensland Government's renewable energy transition, providing the necessary stability to integrate thousands of megawatts of solar and wind generation.
It will provide reliable, around-the-clock renewable energy, helping to decarbonise an energy-intensive industry and support Queensland's future as a technology and renewables powerhouse.
The BESS uses industry-standard grid-scale Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries, one of the safest for large-scale energy storage. This makes them ideal for safely storing large amounts of electricity for quick release when the network needs it.
The battery containers are built with multiple layers of safety. This includes fire suppression systems, advanced thermal management (liquid cooling), and continuous monitoring of voltage, current, and temperature to prevent issues before they occur.
The Lithium Iron Phosphate batteries are designed for a long service life of around 20 years, minimising waste and ensuring the Supernode BESS will be a reliable asset for decades to come.
We will comply with Australian standards for battery disposal and recycling, including removing batteries, containers, transformers and cabling from the site once they have reached the end of their operational life. We commit to recycling as many of these items as possible.
If you live in the area, you may experience some noise from machinery and construction activities, increased dust, and increased temporary lighting near work areas. Every effort will be made to minimise impacts to the nearby community, and we thank you for your patience while we complete these works.
During operation, the BESS uses equipment such as liquid cooling fans and ventilation systems, which can generate noise during operation. The system is designed to keep noise levels at or below 65 dBA when measured from 1 metre away.
If you have any questions or would like to provide feedback, please call 1800 940 947 or email community@supernode.com.au
Supernode is located adjacent to electricity infrastructure, near both power and international fibre optic connections. Its unique location enables the BESS to respond to grid fluctuations in just one second.
Supernode BESS represents a multi-stage investment of up to $2.5 billion with an initial $1.4 billion committed for the first three stages.
The project has created, and will continue to create, jobs in both the construction and operational phases.
It will attract new digital economy businesses and jobs to Queensland and support data-intensive industries in the lead-up to the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Supernode BESS has long-term offtake agreements with Origin Energy for Stages 1 and 2, and Stanwell Corporation for Stage 3. Origin Energy and Stanwell will use the battery’s capacity and energy output to help guarantee a more stable and reliable energy supply to their customers.
Private Energy Partners, an affiliate enterprise of Quinbrook, is building the Supernode Battery Energy Storage System. Quinbrook is a dedicated development, delivery and operations service provider, specialising in energy and infrastructure projects across Australia, North America and the UK.
Partners include CATL, GE Vernova and Siemens to ensure the facility is built to the highest standards of reliability and performance.