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1414 Degrees Gets Key Approval from AEMO for Aurora BESS Power Grid Plans

1414 Degrees (ASX: 14D) has received a key approval from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) as part of its plans to connect the Aurora 140 MW Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) to the Australian power network.

AEMO – the public utility organisation that manages gas and electricity markets in Australia – and South Australian transmission network service provider ElectraNet have each confirmed their acceptance of Aurora’s proposed generator performance standards.

The two authorities have noted that connection of the BESS has not resulted in an adverse system strength impact on other existing or committed generating systems.

Final Due Diligance

Following submission of finalised technical models and detailed design information, final due diligence on the connection will begin.

This will see 1414 finalise its remaining technical deliverables and the terms of a transmission connection agreement (TCA) to advance power purchase agreements with customers.

1414 manages the TCA on behalf of SiliconAurora, which holds the crown lease over the 15.8-hectare site and has so far invested more than $3.5 million in generator studies and regulatory approvals for development of the project.

Separate negotiations with the current sole user of the existing transmission line are needed to enable reclassification of the line as a dedicated connection asset and allow access to the national electricity market.

Data Centre Market

The Aurora precinct has been identified as having potential to support future data centre operations and other developments.

There is increasing global investment in AI-driven digital infrastructure, including recently announced initiatives involving NextDC and OpenAI, and continued expansion by operators such as Firmus.

“This connection milestone for the Aurora BESS further strengthens the precinct’s positioning as a site capable of supporting firmed, reliable electricity supply for such future uses,” 1414 executive chair Dr Kevin Moriarty said.

The company purchased the Aurora Energy project near Port Augusta in 2019 as a long-term renewable energy initiative aimed at delivering reliable electricity to the regional and national markets.​​​​​​​

Source: SmallCaps