Sally Donaldson will participate in the solar energy storage trial.
Camera IconSally Donaldson will participate in the solar energy storage trial. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Solar trial set to shine on Alkimos

Lucy JarvisNorth Coast Times

Synergy and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) will deliver the $6.7 million trial at Alkimos Beach estate.

"Alkimos residents will be the first to benefit from emerging storage technology that can reduce the cost of electricity for consumers and help create more sustainable communities," North Metropolitan MLC Peter Katsambanis said.

"The development and enhancement of energy storage technology is the key to maximising the benefits of solar energy, especially in a state like ours that is blessed with a perfect sunny climate.

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"Energy storage will be the next technological break-through to help residents and communities manage their energy usage and save on energy costs.

"Developing energy storage capacity will also help the many local solar energy businesses in Perth" northern suburbs to grow and provide new job opportunities for local residents."

Resident Sally Donaldson, who has a 1.5kW solar system on her home, will be among more than 100 residents who development partners Lend Lease and LandCorp expect to volunteer for the trial when they start recruiting.

"Im really excited about it it's a great thing that we have this available to us," she said.

"It's an opportunity for us to save money."

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.

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

The trial involves installing a 1.1MWh energy storage device at the estate, and offering residents solar rebates and hot water system and other energy efficient appliances.

Residents will also get an in-home energy display unit that monitors energy generation and use; a variable price plan with reduced rates for network electricity; and advice to save energy and money.