Ausgrid has unveiled the first power pole-mounted battery in the City of Newcastle, as part of a trial to access its viability to support the network.
Workers recently installed the system at Henderson Park in Merewether.
With a 65kWh capacity, the battery will play an important role in better understanding the range of flexible solutions that are available to aid renewable energy growth.
The Merewether device is also set to assist the grid in maintaining the quality of local power supply, while allowing more Newcastle residents to put solar on their homes.
Group executive of customer, assets and digital Junayd Hollis said Ausgrid was already planning to expand the trial.
“Following the success of the batteries in Maitland and the Central Coast, which were installed in June, we’re really excited to connect this system in Merewether, as well an additional six locations over the next year,” she explained.
“We are testing the ability of pole-mounted batteries to provide grid support by storing energy locally, thus applying downward pressure on energy prices by avoiding costly network upgrades.
“This trial complements Ausgrid’s wider community battery program, which has delivered four batteries so far, most recently in Cabarita.”
Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said the pole-mounted battery installation was a welcome addition towards the city’s sustainability developments and renewable energy goals.
“City of Newcastle is committed to taking action on climate change and working with our community towards a net zero emissions city,” she stated.
“We support Ausgrid in improving their network, through battery projects such as this one being trialled in Merewether, so that we can continue to grow our community renewable energy capacity.”
The trial pole-mounted batteries, manufactured by EcoJoule Energy, support all properties connected to the local distribution network.
To gain further information, visit www.ausgrid.com.au/pole-mounted-battery
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