The Albanese Government is delivering on an election commitment, taking the next steps to rollout 400 batteries in neighbourhoods across the country, delivering more affordable and secure solar power to more Australians.
The Community Batteries for Household Solar program will enable Australians to store solar energy for use during peak times, and share excess power with other households.
Today, the Government is announcing the grant guidelines for the first 58 batteries that were promised during the election with applications opening on 30 January 2023.
Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said he was thrilled about the program’s benefits to help lower power prices and improve reliability of the electricity grid.
“One in every three Australian households have solar panels – the highest rate in the world – but far fewer have batteries to store their energy for later use”, Minister Bowen said.
“Community batteries can do this while also allowing stored energy to be shared with others who can’t install rooftop solar.
“These community batteries will not only benefit households with solar panels, but will help lower electricity bills, cut emissions and reduce pressure on the electricity grid.”
The first 58 community batteries will be delivered across urban and regional communities around Australia.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) will develop a program to deliver the remaining 342 batteries following a stakeholder consultation process.
Releasing the guidelines in advance allows communities and industry to develop high-quality applications that demonstrate benefits for communities and value for money.
Applications will be assessed against the best outcomes for families and the energy network, including:
1. putting downward pressure on household electricity costs
2. contribute to lower emissions
3. provide a net benefit to the electricity network
4. store solar energy for later use or sharing and support further solar installations
5. allow households that cannot install solar panels to enjoy the benefits of renewable energy through shared community storage.
The grant opportunity guidelines for the first two streams can be found here:
