Altenso Australia launches, advancing large-scale battery storage

International energy solutions company SMA Altenso has inaugurated its Australian subsidiary, Altenso Australia, establishing offices in Sydney.

The company brings significant global experience in large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) and hydrogen solutions, aiming to support Australia's transition towards clean energy. Altenso Australia is currently collaborating with project developer Avenis Energy on two major battery storage projects, each with 480 megawatt-hours of storage capacity. Both projects are expected to attain ready-to-build status within the coming months.

Market entry

Altenso Australia's entry into the Australian market forms a strategic element of SMA Altenso's worldwide expansion. The Sydney-based operations will focus on delivering utility-scale battery storage and power conversion technologies, particularly for hydrogen applications. This approach aligns with the company's effort to develop a gigawatt-scale pipeline of BESS projects and pursue additional hydrogen initiatives across Australia.

Utility-scale battery systems are generally viewed as crucial infrastructure for increasing renewable energy deployment. These systems address the variability inherent to renewables, improve grid stability, and enhance the reliability and security of electricity networks.

Julien Tissandier, Managing Director at Altenso Australia, said:

"We're excited to bring Altenso's expertise to the Australian market, where we'll add fresh perspectives and competitive energy to this rapidly evolving sector. The first projects, together with our strategic partner Avenis, represent just the beginning of Altenso's Australian pipeline and underscore our deep commitment to enabling Australia's clean energy transition."

Operational background

SMA Altenso operates internationally as a system integrator for complex energy infrastructure. While affiliated company SMA Australia focuses on photovoltaic, battery, and hybrid inverter solutions for residential, commercial and utility consumers, SMA Altenso specialises in integrating large-scale solutions for BESS, hydrogen energy and hybrid supply systems. These services are relevant for both off-grid and grid-connected clients.

Globally, SMA Altenso has installed over 1.5 gigawatts of large-scale battery storage capacity and delivered more than 1 gigawatt in power conversion equipment for hydrogen projects, reflecting over a decade of operational experience in the renewable energy sector.

Global presence

The establishment of Altenso Australia expands SMA Altenso's geographical footprint, which already covers Germany and South Africa. The company's stated goal is to develop further and deliver complex renewable energy projects, supporting clean energy adoption on multiple continents.

Altenso Australia is positioned to leverage SMA Altenso's international expertise as it undertakes its initial Australian projects in cooperation with Avenis Energy, focusing on large-scale storage solutions vital for supporting Australia's renewable energy goals.