Hon Dr Steve Thomas inquired about the Kalgoorlie Vanadium Battery Energy Storage System (VBESS), specifically regarding expressions of interest, assessment processes, timelines, and project delivery. The response indicated 22 expressions of interest were received, with assessment ongoing and a preferred proponent expected by mid-2026, aiming for commercial operations by 2029.

AnsweredQoN 241Legislative Council
Asked
19 March 2026
Portfolio
Energy and Decarbonisation

QuestionView source ↗

Vanadium battery energy storage system—Kalgoorlie
241. Hon Dr Steve Thomas to the Leader of the House
representing the Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation:
I refer to the
proposed Kalgoorlie vanadium battery energy storage system (VBESS).
(1) How many expressions of interest were
received for the Kalgoorlie VBESS project? Of those received, how many were
from Western Australian companies, Australian companies or international
companies?
(2) Who within the Department of Energy
and Economic Diversification will assess the expressions of interest and
subsequent business cases, and what are the key project deliverables and
performance matrices applicable in selecting the preferred proponent?
(3) When will the preferred proponent be
determined and announced?
(4) What is the assigned timeframe for
the completed project delivery of Kalgoorlie VBESS?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the
honourable member for some notice of the question.
(1)–(4) For stage 1 of the expression of interest
process, 22 responses were received. Responses are currently being assessed.
The preferred proponent will be selected as an outcome of stage 2, which is
expected to conclude in mid-2026. The VBESS is expected to commence commercial
operations in 2029.

Explore WA Government Data

Search the full archive in the free dashboard, or query programmatically via API.

Explore more