About Jindalee Energy

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A Battery Energy Storage System, or BESS, is a large battery that stores electricity when there is plenty available and sends it back into the grid when demand is high. These systems help keep the power supply reliable and support renewable energy like solar and wind, which are becoming a bigger part of Australia’s electricity system. 

BESS projects need land that is close to existing power infrastructure, reasonably flat and away from residential areas. Many farms in regional NSW meet these requirements, and importantly, a battery site only uses a small portion of the property, allowing the rest of the land to continue operating as normal. 

Most battery projects require between five and fifteen hectares, depending on the size of the system. The battery is built in a defined, fenced area and does not spread across the farm. The majority of the property remains unchanged and fully usable. 

Yes. In nearly all cases, farming continues as usual outside the fenced battery area. Cropping, grazing and general farm operations can continue, often right up to the boundary fence. Access tracks are planned to minimise any impact on day-to-day farm activities. 

A battery project has a long timeline. The early stage, which includes studies, grid approvals and planning, can take several years. If approved, the battery typically operates for 25 years. At the end of its life, the equipment is removed and the land is rehabilitated as agreed.

Most battery projects require between five and fifteen hectares, depending on the size of the system. The battery is built in a defined, fenced area and does not spread across the farm. The majority of the property remains unchanged and fully usable. 

Landowners are usually paid an option fee during the early development phase, followed by annual lease payments once the battery is built and operating. These payments are generally much higher than standard farming returns for the same area of land and are often indexed over time. The final payment terms depend on the size of the project and grid connection. 

If approvals or grid connection cannot be secured, the project simply does not proceed. In that case, the option agreement ends, the land remains yours, and you keep the payments already received. There is no obligation to move forward if the project cannot be delivered. 

All costs associated with the battery are paid by Jindalee Energy. This includes access roads, fencing, security, landscaping and any required upgrades. The landowner is not expected to contribute financially at any stage. 

Modern battery facilities are designed with safety as a priority and must meet strict Australian and NSW standards. They include monitoring systems, fire protection measures and emergency response plans that are reviewed by regulators and Fire and Rescue NSW before approval is granted. 

Batteries do produce some noise from cooling equipment, but noise studies are required as part of the approval process. Systems are designed to stay within NSW noise limits, and in practice most landowners notice little to no impact, particularly given the distance from homes. 

Battery projects in NSW usually go through the State Significant Development approval process. This involves environmental studies, consultation with neighbours, planning assessment by the State and approval of the grid connection. Jindalee Energy manages this entire process on behalf of the landowner. 

Yes. Community consultation is a formal part of the planning process. Neighbours are notified and given an opportunity to ask questions or provide feedback. Where needed, visual screening and other measures are included to reduce impacts. 

No. Jindalee Energy is responsible for insurance, safety, compliance and operation of the battery facility. The lease and legal agreements are structured to protect the landowner from liability. 

When the battery is no longer operating, it is fully removed and the land is rehabilitated in line with the agreement. Financial guarantees are usually put in place to ensure this work is completed, regardless of future ownership. 

Jindalee Energy works with landowners as long-term partners. Our team are from the Riverina District in NSW and understand what matters for farmers. Our focus is on clear communication, fair commercial terms and minimising disruption to farming operations. We manage the project from start to finish and ensure landowners are informed and comfortable at every stage. 

The first step is a confidential, no-obligation assessment to check proximity to power infrastructure, planning considerations and site suitability. This assessment does not lock you into anything, and you remain in full control throughout the process.