UGL, a member of the CIMIC Group, has been selected by Neoen, a world-leading producer of exclusively renewable energy, and Tesla, a global leader in battery storage and sustainable energy solutions, to construct the 164 MW / 905 MWh Muchea Battery, north-east of Perth in Western Australia.
Muchea Battery is Neoen’s first 6-hour long-duration storage asset and will be equipped to support the State’s energy reliability and transition to renewables. UGL has been contracted to help prepare the site for the installation and connection of 252 Tesla Megapack 2XL units and to design and construct a 132kV substation, including the installation of high-voltage infrastructure, control and switchroom facilities, earthworks and footings. Following installation, UGL will provide testing and commissioning support.
This project comes immediately after UGL’s successful delivery of Neoen’s 341 MW / 1,363 MWh Collie Battery 2, also located in Western Australia. Collie Battery 2 has commenced operations – four months ahead of schedule.
ACS Group and HOCHTIEF Chief Executive Officer and CIMIC Group Executive Chairman Juan Santamaría said: “The contract to help build Neoen’s Muchea Battery is another milestone in our commitment to enabling Australia’s energy transition. CIMIC and ACS Group are strategically focused on building the infrastructure that underpins a low-carbon future – from renewable generation and storage to transmission and advanced technology. Our work with Neoen and Tesla reflects the trust placed in our capabilities and our shared ambition to accelerate clean energy outcomes.”
UGL Managing Director Doug Moss said: “UGL is pleased to add this significant project to our expanding portfolio of energy infrastructure across Australia. Muchea Battery will be our ninth battery installation project and our sixth one for Neoen and in partnership with Tesla. We’re supporting the energy transition through high-voltage transmission upgrades, regional electricity fortification, and the delivery of firming assets that strengthen the grid.”
UGL has delivered 19 major renewable generation and storage projects across Australia, including five flagship big batteries for Neoen: Victorian Big Battery, Western Downs Battery 1, Collie Battery 1 and 2, as well as Western Downs Battery 2 which is currently under construction.
Construction work on site for Muchea Battery will commence in October 2025 and is expected to finish in 2027.