Alinta Energy has formalised its commitment to deliver the first phase of the Reeves Plains Energy Hub Battery, appointing GenusPlus Group as principal contractor for the construction and commissioning of the project. The announcement signals the transition of the project to its operational phase, with site preparations underway and equipment procurement progressing rapidly, according to Alinta Energy’s Chief Development Officer, Andres Maasing, quoted in a statement released on 30 June.
Industrial partnerships and technical capabilities
The site will include 194 battery modules supplied by Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL), a company specialising in energy storage technology, as well as 89 inverters delivered by Power Electronics. The first phase of the facility will be sized to power the equivalent of around 300,000 South Australian households for up to four hours. The project will also feature supporting infrastructure and vegetation screening to reduce the visual impact on the surrounding area.
Andres Maasing indicated that preparatory works are already underway, highlighting the progress of procurement processes and the mobilisation of teams on site. Construction of the first phase is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with operational commissioning planned for 2028.
Expected effects on the regional economy
The partnership between Alinta Energy and GenusPlus Group includes local content targets, with a stated intention to involve regional suppliers and subcontractors in the construction phase. The project thus aims to generate economic benefits for the region, notably through the creation of direct jobs during construction.
Alinta Energy has stated it is holding consultations with residents and local authorities to define a benefit sharing programme, tailored to the expectations of local stakeholders. The company has also confirmed the establishment of dedicated funding for local initiatives, the nature of which will be determined in consultation with stakeholders.
Community engagement and project timeline
The company highlights the importance of consultation and dialogue with the local community throughout the project. Alinta Energy has announced regular updates on the progress of the works and the availability of new opportunities for collaboration as construction advances. Project leaders reaffirm their commitment to maintaining a high level of transparency regarding upcoming stages, in compliance with required safety and engineering standards.
The first phase of the Reeves Plains Energy Hub Battery marks a new step in the development of storage capacity in South Australia, with a direct impact on electricity demand management and grid reliability. Published information indicates that ongoing discussions between industry players, local authorities and stakeholders remain central to the deployment strategy, according to Alinta Energy on 30 June.
