【SMM News Flash】Tianwan Unit 7 Connects to Grid, Commercial Operation Expected in 2026

On October 8, HEXA Energy Services and Oyabe City in Japan’s Toyama Prefecture held a joint briefing on a grid-scale battery project in Ishinada. The facility will have 50 MW of AC export capacity and is scheduled to begin commercial operation in May 2028. Shirokuma Power will provide balance-of-plant EPC services. The project secured an award in Japan’s first Long-Term Decarbonization Power Source Auction. A pre-construction ceremony took place on September 6. The battery will charge during renewable electricity surpluses and discharge during shortages.

On October 8, the UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero granted development consent for Green Hill Solar Farm. The project comprises up to 500 MW of generation, ground-mounted solar arrays, energy storage, grid connections and associated construction and operational infrastructure. The developer submitted its application on May 23, 2025, and it was accepted on June 19. Following a six-month examination involving residents, local authorities and other interested parties, the examining authority submitted its recommendations on July 8, 2026.

On October 8, the Australian Energy Regulator announced revised revenue determinations for two Waratah Super Battery services, extending the project term and payment schedule and changing revenue adjustment mechanisms. The battery can trade electricity while providing system security services. Trading revenue will be shared with consumers to reduce future service charges. The regulator plans to publish an adjusted aggregate payment schedule around June 2027. This will incorporate preceding annual revenue adjustments, including adjustments relating to delayed commercial operation.