The Queensland Government has announced a $179 million investment in the next stages of its local network connected batteries program.
The funding, sourced from the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund, will see 12 new local network-connected batteries installed across the state for stages three and four of its local network-connected batteries program.
The package will also enable the installation of two flow batteries from Queensland manufacturers.
This will allow Energy Queensland to help develop a local battery industry, providing a proving ground for the technology developing pathways for flow battery inclusion in future battery programs.
Energy Queensland’s Chief Engineer, Peter Price, said, “With these battery projects we’re aiming for a win-win-win scenario that achieves the energy trifecta for communities throughout the state – affordability, security and sustainability.”
Stage one of the program delivered five network-connected batteries built at Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba, Townsville and Yeppoon.
Stage two is currently in delivery, with battery construction underway on 12 batteries in Cairns (two sites), Townsville, Mackay, Emerald, Mundubbera, Gladstone, Howard, Toowoomba, Raby Bay, Morayfield and Bribie Island in the Brisbane area.
Stage three will deliver 12 additional 4MW/8MWh batteries, with Mooloolaba, Runaway Bay, Cornubia, Jimboomba, Woodridge, Yatala, Barcaldine, Dalby Central, Glenella, Toowoomba, Milchester and Maryborough currently being considered by Energy Queensland.
Stage four includes the trial of two flow batteries. Sites are currently being considered in Burrum Heads and Ipswich.
Queensland Premier, Steven Miles, said, “This battery program is fundamental to our success in achieving 70 per cent renewable energy by 2030, and Net Zero Emissions by 2050.
“Additionally, flow battery development is an opportunity for Queensland battery manufacturers – supporting good jobs, training and supply chains right around the state.”
The battery program is central to the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, and aims to maximise the benefits of rooftop solar and bolstering the electricity distribution network.
These batteries are in areas with high solar penetration and will be used to support the energy network during times of peak demand.
Each battery has the same capacity as the electricity required to support an average home for more than a year.
Energy Minister, Mick de Brenni, said that this project will take the heat out of the peak demand periods, which puts downward pressure on electricity prices, benefiting households and businesses.
“Investing in batteries helps build the clean energy supply chain, creating business opportunities and jobs for Queenslanders”, Mr de Brenni said.
Stages three and four will take Energy Queensland’s battery fleet to a total of 29.
