The project will incorporate grid-forming inverter technology, enabling the battery storage system to provide voltage and frequency control services independent of conventional generation sources. Grid-forming inverter technology and South Australia’s system strength needsThe Northern Battery’s grid-forming configuration aligns with a broader shift in how the NEM manages system strength as coal retires. Analysis conducted by AEMO earlier this year revealed that grid-forming inverters now feature in 74% of Australia’s 33.2GW NEM battery storage pipeline. The Northern Battery will connect to ElectraNet’s transmission network via pre-existing substation infrastructure at Port Augusta. That tender awarded 15-year capacity contracts to six projects in May 2026, with the Northern Battery amongst the awardees.