Banpu Public Company Limited is strategically expanding its Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) operations in Japan and Australia, citing a need to address grid stability and meet surging global energy consumption fueled by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers.
The Thai-based energy company announced recent progress on three key projects, signaling a concerted push within its “Renewables+” portfolio. The move is part of Banpu’s broader “Energy Symphonics” strategy, which aims to balance a portfolio of energy sources while advancing toward its goal of Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Company officials state that BESS technology is crucial for the transition to greener power, as it stores energy from intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, and releases it when needed to maintain a stable and reliable power supply.
“Banpu capitalized on businesses that support our Net Zero target by 2050; particularly in BESS technology, which is emerging as a gamechanger,” said Sinon Vongkusolkit, Chief Executive Officer of Banpu. “Our investments in battery farms have now expanded in our strategic countries including Japan and Australia, which strongly promote clean energy policies and liberalized electricity markets that foster growth. This serves as a significant opportunity to support our business growth.”
In Japan, the company marked a significant milestone as its subsidiary, Banpu NEXT, brought the Tono BESS project in Iwate Prefecture to commercial operation. The facility represents the company’s first large-scale battery system, with a capacity of 58 megawatt-hours (58 MWh).
Furthermore, Banpu Japan K.K. is partnering with Japanese logistics leader Kamigumi Co., Ltd. to develop the Kamigumi-Tokyo BESS project.
Meanwhile, in Australia, the company’s subsidiary Banpu Energy Australia Pty Limited (BEN) has entered into a joint development agreement with EnergyAustralia, a major electricity generator and retailer. The partnership will focus on developing the Wooreen Energy Storage System (WESS) project.
These initiatives position Banpu to play an increasing role in the energy infrastructure of its key markets, providing solutions that support both decarbonization targets and the demanding power requirements of the digital economy.
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