One of the state’s first neighbourhood batteries set to store solar energy for use by the local community has been established in Tarneit.
The completion of the battery was celebrated Tuesday, February 28, at Gleneagles Reserve in Tarneit, where Powercor installed the battery, which will store 120kW (or 360kWh) of power to directly service an estimated 170 customers.
Wyndham council said the the installation of this neighbourhood battery will help Wyndham grow as a smart, sustainable and liveable city.
“Not everyone who wants to use solar power can afford a personal battery. Providing a battery like this for the community to share takes the burden off individual households and allows more people to take part in using renewable energy for a sustainable future,” Wyndham mayor Susan McIntyre said.
A neighbourhood battery is a large battery that is connected to the same powerlines as the ones used for a home.
The battery stores energy produced by the sun during the day to be available at night when residents need it.
Neighbourhood batteries play an important role in more evenly distributing energy generated by solar so that once it is captured, it can be used by the community.
Tarneit, Hoppers Crossing and Truganina, have the highest penetration of rooftop solar across the state, with almost 14,000 solar households making up about 42 per cent of all Powercor’s customers.
Council said artist 23rd Key was commissioned to paint a mural on the battery and an existing transformer on site.
The artwork depicts flora, local animals and wildlife.
“There are many new families moving to Tarneit and having access to a neighbourhood battery will help to lower emissions and reduce power bills,” Tarneit MP Dylan Wight said.
Details: bit.ly/3EKGvFO
