Learn
We have developed a Learning Hub to support local schools with curriculum-linked content about electricity and renewable energy.
Take a look at the stand-alone website which features videos, interactive game & lesson plans for upper primary & lower secondary students.
neoenlearning.com
What does a big battery do?
Ever wondered what a big battery does?
Neoen and AusNet have made a wonderful animation that explores the many abilities of a grid-scale or big battery and the role they play in supporting the clean energy transition.
CASE STUDY: SA BIG BATTERY
The fast ramping capability of the Tesla Powerpacks used at the Hornsdale Power Reserve (HPR) allows the facility to dispatch large amounts of power quickly and reliably. This means it can support the South Australian electricity grid and deliver major cost savings by providing frequency control and short-term network security services.
In 2019, HPR reduced costs in the National Electricity Market by $116M through the provision of Contingency and Regulation Frequency Control Ancillary Services.
FREQUENCY CONTROL ANCILLARY SERVICES (FCAS)
FCAS is a system in the national electricity market that helps maintain the power system at the right frequency (50Hz).
If the frequency goes outside the normal operating frequency band (49.85Hz to 50.15Hz), the power system faces significant issues and potentially leads to complete blackouts.
For instance, if power generation rises then the frequency will rise. Similarly, if electricity demand increases then the frequency decreases.
Therefore, demand and supply need to be permanently equal to keep the frequency as close to 50Hz as possible. It is the Australian Energy Market Operator’s responsibility to manage this through the FCAS markets.