Have Your Say: Proposed Community Battery for Port Pirie

Published 28th August 2025

Port Pirie Regional Council, in collaboration with the Government of South Australia, is exploring the installation of a 700kW community battery in Port Pirie as part of the emPowering SA program.

The proposed battery will store surplus renewable energy from the grid and release it during peak demand periods, at night, or when the grid requires support. This initiative is part of a broader virtual power plant (VPP) network that aims to deliver more affordable electricity to over 10,000 households and enhance the stability and resilience of South Australia’s energy grid.

The battery will be located on Allotment 1 Grey Terrace, Port Pirie, on a concrete base and enclosed by a fence designed in consultation with Council to meet community expectations for appearance, safety and upkeep. The battery will be owned by the Government of South Australia and operated by AGL as part of the VPP.

Learn More

More information about the proposal is available on Council’s website at:

www.pirie.sa.gov.au/noticeboard/consultation.

Further information can also be accessed at the following locations:

  • Port Pirie Regional Council Administration Office – 115 Ellen Street, Port Pirie
  • Port Pirie Library – 3 Wandearah Road, Port Pirie
  • Crystal Brook Library – Bowman Street, Crystal Brook

Resources include a Locality Plan and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.

We Want Your Feedback

Community feedback is essential to shaping this project. You’re invited to share your views through:

Mail or delivery to: Manager Assets, Port Pirie Regional Council, PO Box 45, Port Pirie SA 5540

Submissions for feedback will close at 5:00pm on Friday 3 October 2025.

community battery artist impression socials tile with green background