Australia: world’s largest lithium-ion battery turned on

The world’s largest lithium-ion was officially turned on in the south of Australia, promising a revolution in the way in which electricity is stored and produced.

Tesla founder Elon Musk, who promised to build the 100-megawatt facility on deadline began dispatching some power into the state’s electricity network on Thursday afternoon, as temperatures rose above 30 degrees celcius.

Jay Weatherill, the state’s premier, flicked the switch at Jamestown on Friday and said that this was history in the making.

“I want to express my gratitude to the workers who have constructed this battery, and they have every right to be proud of what they have constructed,” he said in a statement.

Elon Musk, founder of Tesla

“South Australia is now leading the world in dispatchable renewable energy, delivered to homes and businesses 24/7,” said Weatherill.

He mentioned his critics in the federal government adding: “while others are just talking, we are delivering our energy plan, making south Australia more self-sufficient, and providing back up power and more affordable energy for south Australians this summer.

“The world’s largest lithium ion battery will be an important part of our energy mix, and it sends the clearest message that South Australia will be a leader in renewable energy, with battery storage.”

The battery, which is paired with the neighbouring Hornsdale Win Farm, is owned by French company Neoen and brings greater reliability and stability to the state’s electric grid.

It has the capacity to power 30,000 homes for up to an hour, in the event of a blackout, but is more likely to be used to even out electricity supplies.

The production of the battery was brought about after a Twitter exchange between Musk and Australian billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes, who challenged him to end south Australia’s energy problems.

Musk responded that if he couldn’t build a 100-megawatt battery in 100 days from signing the contract, he would provide it for free.

This will be the highest power battery system in the world by a factor of 3. Australia rocks!! https://t.co/c1DD7xtC90

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 7, 2017

Tesla comfortably beat the deadline, finishing the project in a round 60 days.