Fabrication Requirements for Battery Energy Storage Projects
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are fast becoming a critical part of Australia’s renewable energy transition. Behind every installation is a series of structural steel components that must be designed, fabricated and delivered with absolute accuracy. Whether it’s platform steel, access structures or substation supports, reliable fabrication plays a key role in keeping these fast-paced projects on track.
At DWW Engineering, we’re seeing increased demand for fabrication packages tied to renewable infrastructure. In this article, we’ll list what steel components are often needed for battery energy storage projects and how we can support their delivery.
What BESS Projects Require From Fabricators
Although each battery installation is modular by design, every site presents unique structural challenges. From uneven terrain to evolving designs, the steelwork must be tailored to suit both the electrical scope and the surrounding civil infrastructure.
Steel fabrication for BESS often includes:
- Access stairs, handrails and walkways for maintenance crews
- Structural platforms to support inverters, switchgear and transformers
- Cable tray supports and penetrations
- Substation enclosures or steel-framed equipment rooms
- Foundations and tie-down plates for modular battery units
Every component needs to be dimensionally accurate, well-documented, and delivered ready for fast, no-fuss installation because once electrical gear is on its way, the structure beneath it needs to be ready.
Project Snapshot: Lattice Tower and Beams for a Brisbane Substation
DWW Engineering was recently engaged to fabricate a lattice tower and structural support beams for a substation in Brisbane, which is undergoing a significant expansion to accommodate a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) being installed nearby.
This substation plays a critical role in transferring energy loads between Central and Southwest Queensland to Southeast Queensland, as well as supplying power to northern Brisbane and the CBD. With the new BESS installation, the site will help stabilise demand, store renewable energy, and reduce reliance on traditional generation assets.
With extensive experience fabricating steel structures for the power industry, we ensured that the manufacture of the lattice tower and beams met the strict quality, compliance, and delivery requirements of the project.
Our Approach: Fit For Site, Ready To Install
Every BESS project is under pressure to move quickly – often from design approval to energisation in a matter of months. That leaves little margin for delays or fabrication errors.
Our fabrication process is structured to suit this pace. We offer:
- In-house detailing and modelling to reduce design clashes
- Collaborative reviews with builders and installers to ensure constructability
- High-quality welding, surface treatment and fit-up to match utility specifications
- On-time delivery with components marked, pre-assembled or clearly packed to assist site crews
And while steel is just one part of the overall system, we understand that if the structural elements aren’t right, the rest of the project slows down.
Supporting Renewable Infrastructure That Works
The renewable energy sector continues to grow and BESS installations are becoming a key part of how we store, shift and stabilise clean power. Steel fabrication may not make the headlines, but it’s critical to the performance and safety of every system.
At DWW Engineering, we’re proud to support these projects with reliable, practical steel solutions that meet the realities of modern construction. Need steelwork for a battery storage or substation project? Let’s talk. Our team has the capability, experience, and delivery focus to get it done right — and done fast.