The Victorian government has approved a significant battery project proposed by the Chinese company Trina Solar during a recent visit to China by Premier Jacinta Allen. The project, located in the Kiewa Valley, consists of a 5,000 MW, 1,000 MWh battery and is situated approximately two kilometers from the Dederang Terminal Station. This decision comes amidst ongoing local opposition to both Trina’s project and a competing proposal from Mint Renewables.
The Kiewa Valley battery, which carries an estimated cost of $453 million, was submitted for planning approval in late 2024. It was subsequently fast-tracked through the Labor government’s Development Facilitation Program (DFP), which has expedited over 19 renewable energy and storage projects valued at around $5 billion. Among these is the 200 MW/400 MWh battery project being developed by Mint Renewables in Dederang.
In a statement, Sonya Kilkenny, the state planning minister, emphasized the government’s commitment to accelerating renewable energy initiatives. “We’re fast-tracking decisions on renewable energy projects like this one to provide cheaper, cleaner energy for more Victorians,” Kilkenny said.
Despite this push for development, both the Kiewa Valley and Dederang battery projects have faced significant challenges from local residents. The Alpine Shire Council voted against endorsing the Dederang project at a meeting attended by over 200 community members in February. Critics argue that Mint Renewables failed to adequately address concerns related to bushfire risk management and potential economic benefits.
Opposition to Trina’s project has mirrored these sentiments, with local residents expressing frustration over the perceived lack of transparency regarding the project’s implications. Reports from the ABC noted that community members have voiced their discontent following the state government’s approval.
The Victorian government has stipulated that the construction of Trina’s Kiewa Valley battery must adhere to specific conditions. These requirements include measures to manage bushfire risk, mitigate noise, and address visual impacts associated with the project.
As the energy landscape evolves, the balance between innovative renewable energy projects and local community concerns remains a pivotal issue for the Victorian government. This approval marks a significant step in the state’s efforts to enhance its renewable energy capacity while navigating local opposition.
