More than more 5,000 homes and businesses in Canberra will benefit from subsidised solar power system battery storage over the next 4 years.
Announced last week, Minister for the Environment Simon Corbell said the ACT Government will support 36 megawatts of battery storage through a renewables auction program commencing in 2016. The pilot round will see up to $600,000 awarded through a competitive grants process.
“The global battery storage market is predicted to be worth $400 billion by 2030. Our own market research indicates that the ACT is an ideal launching pad for both national and international businesses seeking to get a head start in this exciting emerging industry,” said Minister Corbell.
“Low-cost energy storage is the missing-link in the transition to a 100 per cent renewable energy grid, and the ACT is determined to play its part in developing this emerging industry while capturing the benefits for households, businesses and research and trades training institutions.”
In August, ACT Labor has announced a new renewables target for the Territory – 100% by 2025. The ACT is on track to meet its meet a legislated 90% goal by 2020.
The ACT government states the Pilot will provide valuable insights regarding the ability of the sector to deliver energy storage, the price of installing battery systems in the ACT currently and the local benefits that can be realised. The Pilot will also inform future auctions for the delivery of battery storage.
The only other Australian government to introduce subsidised energy storage to date is Adelaide City Council, which is offering up to $5,000 for the installation of battery systems associated with solar panels in Adelaide City.
2016 is certainly shaping up to be the year that Australia’s home energy storage revolution really kicks off, with next-generation battery systems from leading manufacturers including Tesla Powerwall and Enphase Energy AC Battery arriving on our shores.
According to a recent survey, of the households that have installed or are considering installing solar power systems, 81% are also considering home energy storage.
50% of all Australian households are forecast to eventually install solar + storage systems.
