Electric community for Alkimos Beach

Residents at Alkimos Beach, north of Perth, will take part in an Australian first after the State Government today announced that Synergy is leading a four-year project to trial energy storage technology.

  • Public and private collaboration developing sustainable communities

  • Trial to examine battery storage and energy efficiency incentives for consumers

Residents at Alkimos Beach, north of Perth, will take part in an Australian first after the State Government today announced that Synergy is leading a four-year project to trial energy storage technology.

The trial, partly funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), will provide insights into the benefits of integrating renewable generation and energy storage and dispatch into a traditional electricity network.

Energy Minister Mike Nahan said the trial could set new standards in future infrastructure design, management of peak demand, help consumers save money and drive long-term behavioural shift in energy use.

The $6.7 million trial involves:

  • installing a 1.1MWh energy storage device at Alkimos Beach

  • offering residents solar rebates and hot water system and other energy efficient appliances

  • an in-home energy display unit monitoring generation and use

  • a variable price plan with reduced rates for network electricity

  • advice to help residents maximise their energy and money saving potential.  

"Energy storage technology is the next innovation in energy markets and will affect the design and operation of future energy infrastructure in new communities," Dr Nahan said.

"Harnessing storage technology and effecting lasting changes in how energy is used, puts the Liberal National Government in a strong position to reduce capital and operational costs and provide services that benefit consumers and whole communities."

Lands Minister Terry Redman said Alkimos Beach represented a new vision for the State Government in creating environmentally conscious and sustainable communities.

"This is a great demonstration of how the Liberal National Government, through its agencies, is partnering successfully with private enterprise," Mr Redman said.

The trial is a collaboration between Synergy and Alkimos Beach development partners LandCorp and Lend Lease.

       Fact File

  • ARENA has granted Synergy $3.3 million funding towards the trial

  • Synergy will be responsible for procurement, installation and operation of the energy storage device, and providing products and services to residents. The collaborating parties are contributing towards the energy smart home package which includes rebates and advice for residents

  • For more information, visit http://www.alkimosbeach.com.au/About-Us/News  

Energy Minister's office - 6552 5700

Lands Minister's office - 6552 6700