ACE Power has announced that two of its flagship Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in Queensland—the 900 MW / 3600 MWh Nebo BESS and the 500 MW / 2000 MWh Raglan BESS—have both received a “Not a Controlled Action” determination under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation (EPBC) Act.
These approvals represent a significant milestone in ACE Power’s mission to support Queensland’s clean energy transition. Located near Mackay and Gladstone respectively, the Nebo and Raglan BESS projects will play a pivotal role in strengthening grid stability, facilitating renewable energy integration, and contributing to the state’s net-zero emissions goals.
ACE Power Managing Director Andy Scullion welcomed the decision, stating “This marks a major advancement for both projects. The EPBC determination means we can proceed without further Commonwealth environmental assessment, reducing project risk and bringing us closer to construction.”
The Nebo BESS is poised to become one of Australia’s largest battery storage systems, providing essential firming capacity to support the increasing share of renewables in the electricity network. Likewise, the Raglan BESS will enhance energy security in Central Queensland by improving reliability and decreasing dependence on fossil fuels.
With environmental approvals secured, ACE Power is now progressing toward connection agreements with Powerlink, scheduled for negotiation later this year. Construction on both projects is expected to begin in 2026.
First Nations and community engagement remains a core focus for ACE Power. The company has conducted consultation events in both Nebo and Raglan to gather feedback prior to submitting development applications. Further engagement is planned as the projects move toward construction readiness, ensuring local perspectives continue to inform the development process. ACE Power also intends to engage local businesses interested in providing goods and services during the construction phase.
“We are committed to working in partnership with local communities, Traditional Owners, and government stakeholders to ensure these projects deliver lasting economic and environmental benefits,” ACE Power Managing Director Andy Scullion added.
