An Australian-first $40 million project on the Sunshine Coast is set to pave the way for Queensland’s renewable energy transition.
A Local Renewable Energy Zone has been established at Caloundra, where residents will be able to share power generated from local rooftops and batteries.
Energy created by households with rooftop solar will be transferred to local batteries during the day, to be transferred back to the community at night, when usage is at its peak.
The state government will deploy up to 8.4MW/18.8MWh of battery storage.
The benefits of the pilot project will be shared among residential and commercial customers from January.
A spokesperson for South-East Queensland electricity distributor Energex said the initiative was aimed at maximising locally produced renewable energy.
“The project will explore models that support all customers who wish to participate in the renewable energy transition,” they said.
“This includes exploring models for renters, vulnerable individuals and residents of unit complexes who do not currently have access to rooftop solar power.”
Energex representatives have been talking to locals before officially turning the switch on.
“Our technical staff have engaged with a diverse range of stakeholders, including environmental groups, councils, housing developers, regulators and representatives from peak bodies through community forums,” the spokesperson said.
“These discussions have been crucial in showcasing the advantages of the LREZ and exploring opportunities and barriers for success of the project.
“As we move forward, the insights gathered from the community consultation will be integral in the next step of the project, which will be to finalise the customer delivery models for LREZ investments, such as community batteries.”
An LREZ pilot project will also be rolled out in Townsville, before LREZs could be expanded around the state.
Energy Queensland chief engineer Peter Price said the first LREZs would be groundbreaking.
“This mix of customer-owned and network-owned batteries could deliver the peaking power equivalent to a coal-fired generator,” he said.
Smart Energy Council chief executive John Grimes also lauded the initiative.
“The Local Renewable Energy Zone is an innovative, nation-leading concept,” he said.
“LREZ puts cost of living relief at the centre of energy policy and households at the heart of the energy market.”
Community organisation Solar Citizens issued a media release regarding the project.
CEO Heidi Lee Douglas said renewable energy solutions were required, not nuclear power, which has been mooted by the Federal LNP including Fairfax MP Ted O’Brien.
“The Sunshine Coast is at crossroads,” she said.
“Does it want to be powered by solar and renewables or take a risk with nuclear energy?
“We can’t have both options in our future energy mix.”
Sunshine Coast Environment Council advocacy and engagement manager Narelle McCarthy said the region would benefit from eco-friendly energy options.
“We know our region is extremely vulnerable to the intensifying impacts and risks from climate change,” she said.
“So, as a Biosphere Reserve community, we embrace sustainability and demonstrate we are leaders in renewable energy uptake, transition and innovation.”
Locals can register their interest to participate at LREZ.
It’s one of a series of energy initiatives being rolled out in the region, including the Borumba Pumped Hydro project, a $16.4 million Maleny Substation rebuild, and a $109.9 million SunSouth energy project.
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