The former coal-fired power station in Hazelwood, Victoria, has successfully transitioned to battery power. 

The Hazelwood Battery Energy Storage System (HBESS) was officially launched by Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D'Ambrosio. 

The battery marks an important milestone in Victoria's target of achieving 95 per cent renewable energy by 2035.

D'Ambrosio said Victoria's energy storage targets are already attracting industry investment and collaboration opportunities.

The Hazelwood battery has an impressive capacity, capable of powering approximately 75,000 homes for an hour during the evening peak. 

To further enhance the state's renewable energy capabilities, the Victorian Budget 2023–24 has allocated $42.2 million to install 100 new neighbourhood batteries across Victoria. This initiative aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2045.

Minister D'Ambrosio acknowledged the historical significance of the Latrobe Valley, the long-time home of Victoria's energy generation. 

She expressed confidence that new investments in technologies like energy storage would solidify the region's role in the renewable energy future.