What caused the operational delay for the Waratah Super Battery?

The delay was triggered by a "catastrophic failure" of a transformer in October 2024 at the project’s facility on the NSW Central Coast. While developer Akaysha Energy initially aimed for a May 2025 recovery, the complexity of replacing the unit and synchronising the system has pushed the full completion date to late 2026.

What is the current operating capacity of the Waratah Super Battery?

The facility is currently restricted to a reduced output of 350 megawatts, utilising only one of its three planned transformers. The remaining capacity is sidelined while manufacturer Wilson Transformer Co produces a replacement unit and contractors prepare the site to bring all three transformers online simultaneously.

How does the new 2026 timeline compare to original project guidance?

The Waratah Super Battery was originally intended to be fully operational by the end of 2025 to bolster the NSW energy grid. This new guidance represents a one-year delay from the original target and a significant extension from the interim May 2025 estimate provided to the Australian Energy Market Operator late last year.

Who are the key corporate entities behind the Waratah Super Battery project?

The $1 billion project is being developed by Akaysha Energy, which is owned by global asset manager BlackRock. The construction and technical delivery involve contractor Consolidated Power Projects and Australian manufacturer Wilson Transformer Co.

Why is the Waratah Super Battery considered a "flagship" asset for the NSW grid?

As Australia’s largest battery project, it is designed to act as a "shock absorber" for the electricity grid, allowing transmission lines to operate at higher capacities. The delay means the NSW grid will have less-than-anticipated backup capacity during the 2025-2026 summer periods.

What are the primary risks for investors following the Akaysha Energy update?

The main risks include further technical setbacks during the installation of the new transformers and potential liquidated damages or cost overruns associated with the extended construction timeline.

Energy

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Waratah Super Battery full operations delayed until 2026

Written by Heidi Cuthbert Published Feb 25, 2026, 12:42 AM

The completion of Australia's largest battery project has faced a significant setback, with developer Akaysha Energy confirming that the Waratah Super Battery will not be fully operational until the end of 2026.

The revised timeline follows a "catastrophic failure" of a transformer last October at the $1 billion facility on the New South Wales Central Coast.

While initial estimates suggested the site would be online by May of this year, the project is currently restricted to a reduced capacity of 350 megawatts using only one of its three transformers.

Akaysha Energy has instructed contractors to replace the faulty unit, but the extended delay marks a departure from the original 2025 completion goal, leaving the energy grid to wait another year for the flagship project’s full power.