ARENA Community Batteries Project switches on

The first batteries in the ARENA Community Batteries Project, coordinated by Momentum Energy, have been switched on.

Five battery energy storage systems (BESS) have been installed across Adelaide — at Aston Hills Shopping Centre, Athelstone Shopping Centre and two Living Choice retirement villages (Fullarton and Flagstaff Hill).

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the rollout of community batteries was central to delivering a fairer, more modern energy grid that capitalised on our abundant sunshine.

“We’re backing community batteries to bring down energy bills, cut emissions and share the benefits of rooftop solar with more Australians — whether you rent or live in an apartment, no one should miss out on solar power in their homes.”

The five batteries provide a total storage capacity of 770 kW/2061 kWh, helping bring down power costs for the retirement village residents and shop tenants by storing excess solar energy and earning money for supporting the electricity grid.

The rollout is part of a larger project to install 39 community batteries across South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland by mid-2026.

At the heart of the project is the Hydro Tasmania Virtual Power Plant (VPP), managed by Momentum Energy.

“This is about giving organisations more control over their energy use,” said Momentum Energy Managing Director Lisa Chiba. “Our VPP helps customers buy and sell electricity at the right time, saving money and supporting the grid.”

Momentum Energy, Active Utilities and YES Group have worked closely to get the program underway.

“This is a proof of concept for embedded network renewable energy storage. It is a cost-effective, intelligent and sustainable solution that strengthens communities and opens up opportunities across our national portfolio,” said Lisa Dowie, CEO of Active Utilities.

The project received funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of the Community Battery Round 1 under ARENA's Advancing Renewables Program.

“Storage is essential to the energy transition. These batteries capture renewable energy when it’s abundant and discharge it when it’s needed most, which brings real benefits to energy users and the grid,” said Mark Yates, CEO of YES Group.

Image caption: (L–R) Graham Hobbs – Director, Living Choice; Lisa Dowie – CEO, Active Utilities; Lisa Chiba – Managing Director, Momentum Energy; Hon. Chris Bowen – Energy Minister; Blake Williams – COO, YES Group.