The potential Ampol Kurnell Energy and Industry Hub (The Hub) may include the existing
fuel Terminal and two potential new precincts on the vacant land, shown below.
The Hub may include:
- Kurnell Terminal
- Industry Precinct to support future logistics and manufacturing activity
- Protected Ecological Area to preserve habitats for endangered species
- Energy Precinct including a possible Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
FAQs
When is Ampol looking to develop the Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub?
It is important to note no decision has been made.
The Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub will undergo State Approval pathways under the guidance of the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). This process will involve engagement with the Sutherland Shire Council and key NSW agencies and active consultation from the community.
Any decision by Ampol will be made after extensive internal review and Board approval, site assessments, and stakeholder engagement.
Why is Ampol looking at the Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub as a potential project?
Ampol is committed to continuing its support of the Kurnell community, while repurposing surplus land in a way that delivers long-term value. Ampol is currently considering its options in relation to the excess Kurnell land, and one possibility under consideration is to establish a Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub.
It is important to note no final decisions have been made.
What is a BESS?
A Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) can charge from the electricity grid and store electricity during periods of high energy production and low demand, and release energy during periods of high demand. Energy storage is recognised as vital for helping transition to renewable energy, ensuring consistency and reliability of power.
Why do you believe Kurnell is a suitable site for a possible BESS?
The Kurnell site offers a combination of strategic, environmental, and infrastructure advantages that make it well-suited for a possible BESS:
- The site is located within an existing E5 Heavy Industrial zone, formerly used for fuel refining, and is buffered from residential areas by more than 500 metres in most directions.
- It is adjacent to the 132kV Ausgrid South Zone Substation, which enables efficient, low-impact connection to the electricity grid without requiring new transmission lines.
- The land is previously disturbed and lacks ecological sensitivity, reducing the risk of environmental or amenity conflict.
How are you proposing to manage the risks of a BESS being so close to a fuel terminal?
The potential BESS would be designed with modular, outdoor enclosures that help reduce fire propagation.
Gas dispersion modelling and emergency planning can mitigate against toxic fumes posing a risk to the community.
The potential project would comply with NSW guidelines including HIPAP 4 and HIPAP 6, which define safe buffer distances and acceptable land use planning near other infrastructure.
Planning and approvals
The Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub will undergo State Approvals pathways under the guidance of the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI). This process will involve engagement with the Sutherland Shire Council and key NSW agencies, with active consultation from the community.
Modification 7 (Mod-7)
This will:
- Support the viable, safe and reliable fuel import terminal
- Improve the redundant land by relocating and/or removing infrastructure and undertaking further land remediation
State Significant Development
Ampol is updating the previous SSD Kurnell BESS Application in 2024 to submit a new SSD Application to include:
- Construction and operation of a BESS and supporting works
- Subdivision plan to separate the Terminal and create an Energy Precinct (with BESS) and Industry Precinct
Check out the status of our application on the NSW Planning Portal.
Possible Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)
The possible BESS, capable of powering 150,000 homes per day, is part of the Energy Precinct within the Hub.
Why a BESS
Energy storage is vital for transitioning to renewable energy, ensuring consistency and reliability of power.
What is a BESS
A BESS can charge and store electricity during periods of high energy production and low demand, and releases energy during periods of high demand.
Stages
The possible BESS would consist of multiple interconnected batteries in containers that
would connect into the Ausgrid Kurnell South Substation on Captain Cook Drive.
The project would be delivered in stages:
- Stage 1 - 250MW proposed to use lithium-ion
- Future Stages - Up to 400 MW (may consist one of more of lithium-ion, or flow battery technologies)
Comprehensive planning and assessment
The possible BESS requires detailed environmental assessment, and this information will form part of the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) being prepared for the new SSD.
Potential impacts on the environment, heritage and the community are thoroughly assessed, mitigated and reviewed by the DPHI, Council, and all relevant regulatory agencies including SafeWorks and the NSW EPA. It will be available for public exhibition and comment.
Have questions?
If you have any questions or feedback about the potential Kurnell Energy & Industry Hub please contact us:
Phone: 1800 719 669
Email: Community@ampol.com.au