AGL upgrades VPP with latest battery technology

battery

The groundbreaking virtual power plant (VPP) being built by AGL in South Australia is about to be upgraded with next generation, best-in-class technology.

The VPP, the first in Australia, went “live” last March and will ultimately involve 1000 connected batteries installed in homes and businesses in South Australia, with an output equivalent to a 5MW solar peaking plant.

In its latest phase of development, AGL has joined forces with Tesla, SolarEdge and LG Chem to offer the latest battery storage technology.

AGL executive general manager of new energy Elisabeth Brinton said participants in the innovative South Australian project would have the opportunity to upgrade their home battery storage systems to some of the world’s best technology from these companies.

She said they would have an option to install an LG Chem Resu battery paired with a SolarEdge inverter or Tesla Powerwall 2 – all of which are at the forefront of the home energy storage market.

“Being part of our VPP project means participants will be able to use their home battery systems to store excess energy produced by their solar systems, allowing them to be discharged when they need it,” Ms Brinton said.

“This helps households draw less power from the grid, which can help them save on energy bills.

“The upgrade of Australia’s largest operating residential VPP, which has more than 1.4MW of battery capacity installed and operating, will increase its ability to help support the electricity grid at times of high energy consumption.

“The project is constantly evolving as we build on the knowledge we have gained from the operation of the VPP.

“We are proud to be delivering this project with Tesla, SolarEdge and LG Chem, leading to great outcomes for customers through our commitment to customer choice.”

Installations have commenced.

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