Building Capacity and Community

Project overview

Pacific Green’s 250MW / 500MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) in South Australia’s Limestone Coast region will begin commercial operations in early 2027. The project will significantly boost energy storage capacity, enhance the state’s energy stability and accelerate progress toward net-zero emissions.

Community engagement is at the heart of every GGC project. From inception, GGC engaged with the District Council of Grant to discuss the project’s community benefits and ensure alignment with local priorities.

Community and local engagement

GGC’s presence in Mount Gambier goes well beyond the project site, in addition to the site office we have established a depot/office in Mt Gambier town to embed our team. By living and buying locally, GGC is building enduring economic value across the Limestone Coast while helping to strengthen the fabric of community life through trade, culture and sport.

With a 20-year O&M contract in place and Stage 2 already approved, GGC is also investing in the region’s future by upskilling the next generation of local workers, supporting family-owned businesses and creating opportunities for local employment.

Local partnerships

GGC has partnered with a range of local businesses and suppliers across the Limestone Coast region including:

• • Gambier Earth Movers (GEM) – earthmoving and foundation works
  • William’s Cranes – lifting services and equipment training
  • Connect Electrical SE – site power and HV capability development
  • Douglas Rural Fencing – fencing and site boundaries
  • The Sign Depot – project signage
  • Don Stewart Waste Disposal – waste management services
  • Mount Gambier Safety Supplies – PPE and site supplies
  • Noal Barr Toyota – vehicle servicing and fleet support
  • Mount Gambier Laundry and Cleaning – cleaning and laundry services
  • Heemskerk Security – security services
  • Pine Hotel and Federal Hotel – accommodation and hospitality
  • Conroy Heights Supermarket – local project supply support

Local workforce and skills development

Working closely with local contractors, GGC is helping develop long-term capability within the region.

William’s Cranes is delivering accredited forklift and equipment operation training to upskill local workers. Connect Electrical SE is receiving hands-on high-voltage operations training to support future operations and maintenance capability.

The project is also hosted on a local family farm, demonstrating how landholders can diversify and actively participate in the renewable energy transition while continuing agricultural operations.

Environmental and community outcomes

Outcomes