The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is backing energy distributors in Victoria to conduct flexible services trials so they can deploy innovative technologies to better manage electricity demand, help stabilise the grid and lower power bills.
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The federal government is delivering over $4.48 million in grants to United Energy and Birdwood Business Energy to conduct voluntary flexible demand trials in Victoria.
As power generation from variable energy sources like wind and solar grows, it is more important than ever to match demand to supply. Flexible demand eases pressure on the grid during peak periods, reducing peak demand and energy costs.
United Energy will receive $3.54 million for its $8 million Flexible Services Trial project, which will use smart technology to efficiently manage hot water load, rooftop solar exports and customer devices.
Birdwood will receive $942,944 to develop a $2.58 million Load Flexibility Report Card Platform, which will provide businesses with data to support decision-making on flexible demand activities.
Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Jenny McAllister said, “The energy in our grid is increasingly renewable. By investing in smart tech for flexible demand, we’re making sure the grid is stable and meets the needs of consumers and market.”
The trial by United Energy, in partnership with CitiPower and Powercor, presents an opportunity for Victoria to fast-track the scaling up of opt-in flexible management of hot water and other consumer devices.
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Birdwood’s project, to be supported by solar installers and energy efficiency experts, is expected to reduce the cost of identifying demand flexibility for commercial energy users by more than 50%.
