EnergyAustralia - Smart Grid, Smart City bid winner

The Energy Networks Association (ENA) Chief Executive, Andrew Blyth, has congratulated one of ENA’s member companies, EnergyAustralia, which was announced as the successful bidder for the government’s $100 million Smart Grid, Smart City demonstration project.

The main site for Australia’s first commercial-scale smart grid project will be in Newcastle, with other parts of the trial to be conducted in Scone, Homebush, Ku-ring-gai and the Sydney CBD. The EnergyAustralia consortium includes IBM Australia, AGL, GE Energy, TransGrid, Newcastle City Council and the NSW government.

Blyth said: “The Smart Grid, Smart City project is a positive step in helping Australia move towards a smarter and more energy-efficient network and ENA is pleased that EnergyAustralia has been selected to lead this important program.

“This demonstration project will provide industry with important information on the costs and benefits of smart grid technologies and how they can be used to effectively integrate renewable energy sources as well as improve energy efficiency, quality and reliability.

“I would also like to acknowledge that the vast majority of ENA’s member companies are actively progressing the concept of smart networks (smart grids) throughout their businesses,” said Blyth. “ENA members realise that smart networks are essential to allow for the more efficient use, delivery and consumption of power throughout Australia. Importantly, smart networks also equip consumers with the information and tools needed to improve energy usage in homes and businesses.”

ENA is expecting to hold a Smart Networks Summit, in conjunction with EnergyAustralia in March 2011, which will also allow for a presentation on the details and progress of the Smart Grid, Smart City project.