1414 Degrees and Vast progress energy storage project

Silicon energy storage company 1414 Degrees has signed a term sheet that will see its Aurora Energy Precinct at Port Augusta in South Australia access the ElectraNet 275kV Hill-to-Hill power line connecting to the National Electricity Market.

The company’s 50 percent owned joint venture with Vast Renewables, SiliconAurora Pty Ltd signed a term sheet with Vast Solar and BHP subsidiary, OZ Minerals with the intention of making a binding agreement by 30 September, 2024. Oz Minerals is the sole customer utilising the power line.

The precinct initially will house a big battery (140MW/280MWh) energy storage system (BESS), with 1414 Degress planning to then deploy its SiBox silicon energy storage technology at the site.

SiBox recently demonstrated the storage and delivery of continuous process heat at levels needed for industrial use.

1414 Degrees Executive Chairman Kevin Moriarty said: “The execution of this term sheet represents a significant milestone for the Aurora Energy Precinct and 1414 Degrees.

“In the coming months we look forward to providing critical generation and stability services to support the renewable transition in the NEM.”

Vast Solar is developing a series of concentrated solar projects around Port Augusta.

Vast acquired a 50 percent interest in SiliconAurora in 2022 and has obtained approvals for its modular concentrated solar technology and a pilot solar methanol plant.

Vast’s VS1 concentrated solar plant is supported by the federal government with up to $110 million in concessional financing and up to $65 million in a non-dilutive equity grant from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA).

Vast’s SM1 green methanol demonstration plant has received $19.4 million in funding from the German-Australian Hydrogen Innovation and Technology Incubator HyGATE.

Further reading:
1414 Degrees demonstrates storage and discharge of industrial process heat
Vast Solar appoints engineering firm to concentrated solar power project
Vast Solar gains partner for solar methanol export

Picture: Vast Solar/green methanol demonstration plant