Victorian electricity distributor AusNet has commenced the final phase of construction works for the Corryong Islandable Microgrid, which will operate when the main power supply from Wodonga is interrupted.
The microgrid includes a 4.9MW/5.1MWh battery energy storage system and diesel generation. It uses smart grid protection, control systems, and communication technologies to manage the microgrid operation, and can operate for up to five days without refuelling.
Related article: Life isn’t easy at the edge of the power grid. Could batteries and microgrids offer a brighter future?
AusNet chief development officer Jon D’Sylva acknowledged that the Corryong region had been significantly impacted by the 2019/20 and 2026 fire events.
“Extreme weather events and fires can have a challenging impact on the electricity network. This microgrid will provide backup electricity during power outages to 930 properties in Corryong through to Colac Colac,” he said.
“Together with DEECA and the local community, we’re transforming energy supply in one of Victoria’s most remote townships through an innovative microgrid backed by battery storage, generation and advanced network technology.
“Importantly for customers, the microgrid won’t add cost to power bills or require people to change their electricity retail arrangements,” D’Sylva said.
The microgrid is a partnership between AusNet, Mondo, and the Victorian Government, with additional funding provided from the Australian Government Disaster Ready Fund.
Related article: Essential Energy scores state funding for microgrid studies
It is scheduled to be operational by the end of 2026.
