The City of Melbourne is powering ahead to deliver the benefits of renewable energy for residents and businesses – switching on the first Power Melbourne community battery at Council House.
Power Melbourne’s innovative energy storage solution will accelerate the city’s transition to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030, helping Council achieve net-zero emissions by 2040 – while improving access to more affordable renewable energy for residents and businesses.
More batteries will be installed at Boyd Community Hub in July and Library at the Dock later this year to grow the Power Melbourne’s pilot network.
The batteries will initially be linked to a Community Benefit Fund to support local renewable projects. The pilot phase of the project will run for about 18 months and will test Power Melbourne’s local energy storage model in partnership with Origin Energy – gathering insights to inform the expansion of the battery network and future retail offerings.
With a combined capacity of 1.1MWh, the batteries will charge during the day when there is a higher proportion of renewable energy in the grid. Stored energy will then be released back into the grid when it’s needed most – helping to support the transition to renewable energy.
Power Melbourne will boost the city’s economy by creating new opportunities for research, industry development, education and training.
Each Power Melbourne battery will be brought to life with bespoke artwork, designed by local Melbourne creatives. The first Power Melbourne battery will be adorned with ‘Let’s get energised’ by contemporary artist Mysterious Al – a reflection on the city’s urban and natural forms.
Batteries at the Boyd Community Hub and Library at the Dock will feature works by award-winning comic and printmaking artist Michael Fikaris and Amina Briggs, a young Boonwurrung/Erub/Ugar woman and emerging artist.
Power Melbourne is supported through the Victorian Government’s Neighbourhood Batteries initiative and the Australian Government Community Batteries for Household Solar program.
