Community Batteries

We are engaging locally as we connect community batteries to the Low Voltage electricity distribution network across Queensland.

These batteries are helping make the most of the community’s rooftop solar.

They allow more solar energy to be sent into the grid, when the sun is shining. The energy is then stored for use locally when electricity demand is high.

Building on the lessons learnt and success of the Ipswich Neighbourhood Battery Trial, we are currently rolling out these small-scale batteries to create more battery neighbourhoods, and to support other locations across the state.

Where are batteries being installed?

We are currently installing the last of the batteries funded through the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water’s Community Batteries for Household Solar program. These are located in Cairns North and throughout the South East.

To build on this, we are currently installing a further 69 community batteries with the support of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s (ARENA) Community Batteries Funding Round 1 under ARENA’s Advancing Renewables Program.

These will create Battery Neighbourhoods around Bundaberg and Hervey Bay in regional Queensland, across Kingston, North Maclean and Jimboomba in Brisbane South, and across Bribie Island, Morayfield and Scarborough in Brisbane North.

In addition, we are investing in community batteries in Energex's Caloundra, and Ergon Energy’s North Townsville network zones.

Check out the map to see the battery locations as the new sites are added.

Sharing in the benefits

Community batteries help:

• Support more rooftop solar
• Put downward pressure on electricity costs
• Reduce pressure on the electricity network
• Improve security and reliability of supply.

As part of the government-funded programs, we’re also sharing benefits locally through our Community Fund.

We are especially interested in disaster preparedness or other community resilience projects, or anything supporting the renewable energy transition including solar, battery storage, electrification and energy literacy education.

When applying, let us know you heard about the Community Fund through a ‘community battery promotion’.

Register for Community Fund updates.

Want to know more?

Take a look at the frequently asked questions or the Council Introduction for more background

You can also send us an email at talkingenergy@energyq.com.au if you'd like to know more about a battery install in your community.