Community
18 July, 2025
Learn more about the upcoming BESS projects
AUSTRALIAN Renewable Energy Services (ARES) is calling on residents of Camperdown and Cobden to share their feedback as early planning continues for two Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the Corangamite Shire.
In addition to community engagement, ARES is also seeking expressions of interest from local businesses and service providers to support the projects.
“Working closely with Corangamite Shire Council and the local community is integral to our plans,” ARES managing director Sigi Psutka-Jones said.
Construction phases are anticipated to begin in 2026, with more than 100 combined jobs expected to be created during the delivery phase and up to four permanent long-term roles going forward.
“We are genuinely committed to recruiting locally wherever possible – that’s one of the reasons we’re raising awareness now,” Mr Psutka-Jones said.
“Jobs will range from civil engineers, plant operators, surveyors and labourers, through to traffic controllers, mechanical fitters, and health and safety coordinators.”
Community information sessions will be held from late July through the first week of August.
Local residents and businesses are encouraged to attend, ask questions, and share feedback.
“Our team will be on hand to talk about the project and listen to the community,” Mr Psutka-Jones said.
“We’re also keen to hear ideas for how these projects could deliver additional investment and benefits for the community.”
The battery projects are proposed to be located on private land, with careful design considerations including buffers and setbacks to minimise sightline changes for nearby properties.
Grid-connected batteries are essential infrastructure that improve the resilience and reliability of the electricity system.
They store excess power when supply is high and release it back into the grid when it’s needed most, helping to smooth out peaks and support renewable energy use.
Both projects are currently in the early planning phase.
Once construction begins, each is expected to take around 12 months to complete. Together, they will have the capacity to power approximately 30,000 homes annually.
Sessions will be held at the Camperdown RSL at 14 Pike Street on Thursday, July 31 (from 5-8pm), Friday, August 1 (from 10.30am-5.30pm) and Saturday, August 2 (from 9am-4pm).
The information sessions in Cobden will be held at Alderwood Manor at 56 Curdie Street, and will run on Sunday, August 3 (from 9am-4pm) and Monday, August 4 (from 9am-4pm).
Residents who would like to learn more or register interest in business opportunities, but are unable to attend the sessions, can also contact 1300 569 699, email feedback@areservices.com.au or visit www.areservices.com.au.
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