A newly activated community battery in North Sydney aims to reduce electricity expenses and enhance energy reliability for approximately 350 residents.
The Cammeray battery energy storage system, boasting a capacity of 200kW/284kWh, has been constructed and is owned by Ausgrid.
Benefits of Community Batteries
The Federal Government has highlighted that community batteries make affordable, dependable renewable energy accessible to everyone, whether they’re homeowners with solar panels, renters in apartments, or residents of social housing.
About 350 locals are anticipated to save roughly £200 annually, thanks to the battery’s ability to absorb surplus solar energy generated during the day and return it to the network during high-demand periods.
Moreover, community batteries can help postpone or avoid expensive upgrades to the electricity network’s infrastructure, ultimately benefiting all consumers with lower network charges.
The Federal Government noted that while one in three households have adopted solar energy, only about one in 40 currently use battery storage.
Community Batteries for Household Solar Program
The Community Batteries for Household Solar initiative is designed to allow households to share or utilise excess rooftop solar energy within their local area, enabling them to enjoy the financial perks without needing to invest in their own battery system.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, remarked, “Our Reliable Renewables Plan is delivering cleaner, more affordable, and reliable renewable energy to communities across the country, including right here in North Sydney.”
He further elaborated, “Just as we store water to use when it’s needed, batteries like the one in Cammeray will do the same for reliable and cost-effective renewable energy.”
Government Commitment to Clean Energy
New South Wales Senator, Tony Sheldon, emphasised that the government is dedicated to providing affordable, reliable, and clean energy, which is precisely what this battery will offer to the North Sydney community.
Mr Sheldon stated that this battery symbolises the government’s pledge to a renewable energy transformation that lowers utility bills, alleviates cost-of-living concerns, and strengthens Australia’s energy independence for the future.