The Western Australian Government has announced a four-year battery storage trial to explore the benefits of integrating solar and energy storage into a traditional electricity network.
The $6.7million trial is a collaboration between Synergy and development partners LandCorp and Lendlease.
The trial is partly funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) who invested $3.3million in the project. Western Power is also providing technical support.
The trial will take place in homes across Alkimos Beach (WA) and aims to save participating customers 15 per cent or more on their electricity bills.
The trial includes the installation of a 1.1 megawatt-hour energy storage facility, rebates for solar panels, hot water system and energy-efficient appliances, in-home energy monitoring, a variable price plan with reduced rates for network electricity, and an education and behavioural change program.
WA Energy Minister, Mike Nahan, said the trial could change energy infrastructure design in future urban developments.
“This trial is a great example of how the government is leading the way in renewable energy by investing in communities and supporting the development of new technologies, which are changing the face of the sector and how traditional energy utilities operate,” Mr Nahan said.
“Energy storage is the next logical step in new technology and consumers are demanding solutions from the energy provider which package solar and storage.
“This exciting trial will inform us about how we can achieve holistic benefits – for consumers, government and developers.”
Lands Minister, Terry Redman, said the Alkimos Beach development had received Australia’s first 6-star Green Star rating.
“The Government encourages sustainability in the property industry by promoting green programs, technologies, design practices and operations,” Mr Redman said.
“This trial supports the vision for creating environmentally conscious and sustainable communities and demonstrates a successful collaboration between public and private organisations and the Government’s commitment to deliver communities of the future.”
