Queensland Premier Steven Miles has confirmed a $179 million investment to be injected into the next stages of its successful network-connected batteries program.
According to the Queensland Government, the funding, sourced from the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund, will empower the installation of 12 new local network-connected batteries across the state.
The package will also include the installation of two flow batteries, made by local manufacturers. This move will enable Energy Queensland to help develop a local battery industry and provide a proving ground for technology, developing pathways for flow battery inclusion in future battery programs.
Stage one of the program has successfully delivered five batteries network-connected with energy storage 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. Energy Queensland will now scope locations, with Mooloolaba, Runaway Bay, Cornubia; Jimboomba, Woodridge, Yatala, Barcaldine, Dalby Central, Glenella, Toowoomba, Milchester, and Maryborough currently being considered.
Stage four includes the trial of two flow batteries. Sites are currently being considered in Burrum Heads and Ipswich.
The battery program is central to the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan, maximising 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.
Stages three and four will take Energy Queensland’s battery fleet to a total of 29.
According to QLD Premier Steven Miles, Queenslanders are world leaders when it comes to rooftop solar.
“We have the highest rate of rooftop solar anywhere in Australia so it’s only right that we equip our energy network to keep pace with the high rates of solar generation,” said Miles.
“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.”
Miles said Queensland has renewable energy capabilities the world is looking for, and his government has the plans in place to capitalise on the opportunities that bring.
“That means we generate cheaper, cleaner energy to power your home now and into the future,” he said.
For more renewable and solar news, subscribe to ecogeneration.