The town of Emerald in Central Queensland has been selected as the next large-scale, network-connected battery site following Tanby’s connection in 2022.
The new battery is one of the next twelve large-scale, electricity network-connected batteries that will help Queensland communities reap even more benefits from rooftop solar.
Energy Queensland’s General Manager for Energy Storage, Glenn Dahlenburg, said, “This new battery at Emerald will ensure that the energy generated locally stays locally, instead of putting pressure on upstream infrastructure.
“As we connect more renewables for our customers, battery storage will give us greater flexibility to connect rooftop solar, balance supply and demand, and keep voltages in check, which is vital for the security of the network that powers Queensland.”
Members of the Palaszczuk Government’s Regional Community Forum visited the Central Highlands to celebrate the news.
Queensland Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen, Mick de Brenni, said, “As Queensland progresses toward its renewable energy target, batteries, firming and other storage options will become increasingly important.”
Emerald is home to over 1,920 solar systems, and the battery will allow locals to capture cheap renewable energy and drive down power bills, easing the cost of living.
“Local network-connected batteries will play a key role in supporting households and businesses to install more rooftop solar, putting more downward pressure on bills and easing the cost of living,” Mr de Brenni said.
Member for Rockhampton, Barry O’Rourke, said, “The renewable energy revolution in Central Queensland is good for jobs, good for the economy, and good for the environment, and proudly led by our publicly owned transmission and distribution companies Powerlink and Ergon Energy.
“Construction work is also underway on building a brand-new 50MW battery near Gracemere, which could provide enough power for nearly all the homes in Gracemere and changes the way energy supply and demand can be managed during peak times.
“It means we can pump more cheap renewables into the Queensland SuperGrid and create more good jobs in our publicly owned energy system for workers in Central Queensland.”
Featured image: Sam Mayberry, Energy Queensland; Brittany Lauga MP; Minister Mark Furner; Barry O’Rourke MP; Bart Mellish MP. Image provided by Queensland Government.
