The future of energy is here, and it’s not just about generating power—it’s about storing it smarter. But here’s where it gets controversial: what happens when the site of a state’s last coal plant becomes the birthplace of a cutting-edge battery system? That’s exactly what’s unfolding in South Australia, where Ampyr Australia is transforming the legacy of coal into a beacon of renewable innovation.
Ampyr has acquired a 270-megawatt, eight-hour battery project originally slated for the Spencer Gulf region, but with a twist: it’s relocating the development to the site of the Northern Power Station, South Australia’s final coal generator, which shut down in 2016 after 31 years of operation. This move isn’t just strategic—it’s symbolic. The project, now renamed the Northern Battery, represents a bold shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy storage, turning a former coal plant into a cornerstone of the state’s clean energy future.
And this is the part most people miss: South Australia isn’t just dipping its toes into renewables—it’s diving in headfirst. With an average of 75% wind and solar power already in its grid, the state is aiming for a staggering 100% net renewable energy by 2027. The Northern Battery will play a pivotal role in this transition, using the decommissioned plant’s existing infrastructure to create a grid-forming, utility-scale battery system. This isn’t just about storage; it’s about stabilizing the grid, firming up solar and wind resources, and ensuring reliability for consumers.
Ampyr CEO Alex Wonhas, a former senior executive at the Australian Energy Market Operator, puts it bluntly: “This is the energy future.” Wonhas, who spearheaded the country’s multi-decade plan to shift from coal to renewables, sees battery storage as the linchpin of this transformation. His enthusiasm is backed by action—Ampyr’s first major projects in Australia include two gigawatt-scale batteries in New South Wales, and their Bulabul battery near Wellington recently won federal funding as part of the Capacity Investment Scheme.
But here’s the question that sparks debate: Can repurposing industrial sites like coal plants truly bridge the gap between old and new energy systems? Wonhas believes so, arguing that projects like the Northern Battery are critical to strengthening grid reliability while reducing costs. Yet, some critics wonder if the pace of deployment is fast enough to meet ambitious renewable targets. What do you think? Is this the right approach, or are there better ways to transition to clean energy?
Beyond the technology, Ampyr is also focusing on community impact. The company plans to start construction in 2026 and is already engaging with the Port Augusta community to create jobs and business opportunities. A $40,000 Community Benefit Fund will support local projects, and Ampyr is partnering with the Nukunu Traditional Owners to ensure cultural, economic, and social benefits for First Nations people.
This isn’t just a story about batteries—it’s about reimagining our energy landscape. South Australia’s journey from coal to renewables is a global benchmark, and the Northern Battery is a testament to what’s possible when innovation meets ambition. But here’s the final thought: As we celebrate this progress, are we doing enough to ensure a just and equitable transition for all? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this conversation is far from over.