August 2025

Australian renewable energy developer, ACE Power, is delighted to share that 5.3.4A approval has been received from AEMO for its Kerang Hybrid project, located in northern regional Victoria. Comprising a 161 MW_DC solar farm and an AC-coupled 55 MW, 2-hour battery energy storage system (BESS), the project will connect directly to the network via the adjacent Kerang substation, and will utilise SMA inverters and the SMA Hycon controller.

The approval follows a rigorous and evolving regulatory assessment process, particularly in relation to grid-forming inverter technology–a key feature of the project’s battery system–which will help strengthen and stabilise the electricity network as more renewable energy comes online. This marks ACE Power’s third 5.3.4 approval for a grid-forming project and the second in its Victorian portfolio.

“Securing 5.3.4A approval from AEMO is a significant accomplishment for the ACE Power team,” said Colm Ahern, Development Director. “We are proud to achieve one of the first approvals for a solar and BESS hybrid with grid-forming technology in the NEM. It reflects the dedication and expertise of our in-house development team, and the invaluable support provided by our external technical advisors.”

The Kerang Hybrid project is designed to deliver clean, reliable energy to the surrounding network and will play an integral role in supporting the Victorian Government’s net-zero emissions targets. The combination of solar generation and battery storage will allow for greater flexibility in meeting demand and improving grid stability.

With grid connection approval now secured, ACE Power will continue to progress the project towards construction which is targeted to commence in Q4 2025.