Energex trials smart hybrid system

Redback electrical engineer Fasil Worku (left) shows network technology delivery manager Peter Judge how to use the Redback Solar Inverter System
Redback electrical engineer Fasil Worku (left) shows network technology delivery manager Peter Judge how to use the Redback Solar Inverter System

The first phase of Energex’s Battery Storage Trial has taken a step forward, with the installation of a smart hybrid system at its Brisbane training centre.

Energex has purchased a Redback Smart Hybrid System and partnered with Redflow, Sunverge, Tesla, Reposit and SolarEdge as part of the trial’s initial phase.

Energex is conducting the trial to explore the effects on peak demand and power quality. It also hopes to apply the learnings from its successful PeakSmart air-conditioning program, and explore how it can ensure homeowners receive the optimal outcome from their battery and solar PV systems.

The trial will also explore the possibility of accessing and remotely controlling the systems at certain peak times in the same way Energex does now with hot water systems, pool pumps and air-conditioners to support the network.

Energex senior future tech implementation engineer Aidan Roberts the Battery Storage Trial is part of a long-term strategy to manage demand on the network based on customers’ ever-changing usage habits.

“Through this trial we will be able to record real time from the systems and observe the usage habits, which is similar to the smart technology processes we currently use for air conditioners and hot water systems,” Mr Roberts said.

“The trial also allows Energex staff to gain first-hand experience working with the latest technology and better understand the changes we are likely to see over the next 20 years.”

South-East Queensland has one of the highest penetrations of solar PV systems in the world, and this looks set to increase as more and more customers embrace renewable energy alternatives for their homes and businesses. Given its high solar PV penetration, Queensland has been earmarked as one of the primary target markets by key players in the Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) market.

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