The feasibility of a solar power microgrid and community battery for Eden has been explored in recent months and the proposed project has had some positive developments.
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Eden Recovery and Resilience Alliance community development officer, Eric Wolske, said the potential of a local micro grid and community battery continues to be explored.
'With renewables thriving and providing cheap intermittent energy, the value of using supportive and complementary technologies, like batteries, is increasing," Mr Wolske said.
"As large-scale battery costs reduce, they are becoming even more viable, and they are now ready to solve the biggest challenge posed by renewables - at times of high renewable production and low consumer demand, batteries can store the excess and return it when renewable are less productive, or demand is higher."
Mr Wolske said the goal of the project is to improve resilience and help reduce electricity costs for residents and businesses in the local area.
A project request application was submitted to Essential Energy and a preliminary report has been received regarding the proposed Eden Solar Grid and Community Battery.
"Further meetings with Essential Energy have been very encouraging, and although other regions are also proposing similar projects, Eden will need to develop a proposal that is unique and will therefore separate us from the rest," he said.
"One step we ensured was undertaken was to seek assistance in how to fund a project of this magnitude."
Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) was engaged by the project group in its early stages and discussion last week with ARENA allowed the group to understand the process for the next round of funding applications later this year.
"It was suggested that we undertake a feasibility study in readiness for potential micro-grid community battery grant opportunities," Mr Wolske said.
"A feasibility study will be a mandatory component of these grant opportunities and we will be reaching out with a view to partnering with likeminded organisations such as IT Power, Rural Fire Service and perhaps even philanthropic support to assist with funding the feasibility study."
Auspiced under the Eden Community Access Centre, anyone interested in being involved or supporting this community project, is invited to contact Eric Wolske or Carina Severs at Eden Community Access Centre directly: 6496 3970.
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Leah Szanto
Regional journalist covering the Far South Coast of NSW.
Regional journalist covering the Far South Coast of NSW.
