Australia’s $1 billion Warratah Battery project, the largest in the Southern Hemisphere and touted as critical infrastructure, has suffered a catastrophic failure. A transformer at the site north of Sydney is now “beyond repair,” pushing back timelines and casting doubt on what was once presented as a model of the renewable future.
This wasn’t just any project. Built on a decommissioned coal-fired power plant, using existing transmission lines, and designed to stabilise the grid while unlocking the potential of renewables, the Warratah Battery was supposed to be a poster child for clean energy. Instead, it stands as a monument to ambition outpacing reality. One failure, one transformer, and suddenly a billion-dollar project is a cautionary tale rather than a triumph.
You're Missing the Best Part!
This article is exclusively for Gold Members — our most loyal and informed readers.
Join today to unlock the full story, enjoy an ad-free experience, and support independent local journalism.
Start your 2-week free trial — then it’s less than $1/month. Cancel anytime.
Already a member? Login here
