Scaling battery energy storage delivery through an integrated program approach
At a glance
GHD has supported Synergy, Western Australia’s energy operator and retailer, in the delivery of three large-scale battery energy storage projects within the South West Interconnected System (SWIS). The approach has progressed from initial Owner’s Engineer services to a fully integrated Project Management Team (IPMT) model. This integrated approach enabled coordinated decision-making across technical, delivery and operational functions, while supporting delivery in line with tightly defined project schedules.
Battery energy storage systems
The challenge
The SWIS continues to transition toward higher levels of renewable generation, requiring additional system flexibility to support grid stability as coal-fired generation retires. This shift has placed increasing focus on program execution across multiple large-scale energy storage projects, while maintaining safety, quality and consistency.
In response, Synergy progressed a portfolio of Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects to support the state’s evolving energy system, including:
- Kwinana Battery Energy Storage System Stage 1 (KBESS1)
- Kwinana Battery Energy Storage System Stage 2 (KBESS2)
- Collie Battery Energy Storage System (CBESS)
This created a need for a delivery approach that could be applied across multiple assets, reduce duplication between project stages and support consistent application of lessons learned across the program lifecycle.
Our response
GHD supported Synergy across the development of its BESS portfolio, beginning with early-stage input to business case development and progressing to Owner’s Engineer services for KBESS1.
This established a basis for continuity of scope across subsequent project phases. This scope was extended into a more integrated delivery model for KBESS2 and the CBESS, with coordinated support provided across engineering, construction and commissioning activities.
The adoption of an integrated program model enabled a more coordinated and repeatable approach across the portfolio. Shared systems, processes, frameworks and lessons learnt were applied across projects, supporting consistency in execution and strengthening alignment between planning, engineering, procurement and delivery activities.
A key outcome of this approach has been improved continuity of technical knowledge across the program lifecycle, supported through structured coordination across disciplines and phases. It has also enabled opportunities for engineers to gain direct exposure to complex, utility-scale energy infrastructure, including involvement in site-based delivery, construction support and commissioning activities, contributing to capability development across the sector.
The impact
The integrated program approach adopted across KBESS1, KBESS2 and CBESS has established a more consistent and scalable framework for large-scale battery energy storage projects, providing a reference point for future initiatives.
By aligning planning, engineering, procurement and execution activities across successive projects, the model has strengthened continuity in decision-making and improved the transfer of lessons learned between stages and assets. Strong alignment across delivery teams was underpinned by open communication, shared objectives and a sustained focus on program outcomes over an extended period of collaboration. This contributed to effective coordination of complex technical and logistical requirements within a time-sensitive delivery environment.
Together, these outcomes highlight the value of an integrated program approach in supporting the effective progression of complex, multi-asset energy storage developments.