- Over 780 Territory households and businesses have applied for the scheme
- Grant is worth up to $6000
- Changes include grants can only be for approved battery systems
The Northern Territory Government has today announced it is continuing the Home and Business Battery Scheme, albeit with some changes.
By installing the batteries, households and businesses can maximise their use of electricity generated from rooftop solar PV systems, while making a contribution to grid stability and reducing power system costs overall.
The scheme falls under the Territory’s target of 50% renewables by the end of the decade.
During the first round of grants, over 780 Territorian households and businesses applied for the scheme, over 550 of these applications were approved.
The total funding made available then was $3.3 million and has resulted in about 3.8 megawatt-hours of electricity storage capacity being delivered.
The grant is worth up to a maximum of $6000 per household or business and will ensure grid stability through battery investment.
Changes include from 1 July 2021, homes and business can purchase a battery with a grant of $450 per kilowatt-hour of battery system capacity, up to the full $6000.
Additionally, from 2 August 2021, grants will only be available for approved battery systems that have been assessed as “virtual power plant capable” – which refers to the battery system being coordinated via a network.
The Territory government argues the changes improve the equity and efficiency of the scheme, especially into the future.
“We want Territorians to have access to the latest and best technology as we build a stronger and more resilient power system for Territory households and businesses,” said Eva Lawler, Minister for Renewables and Energy.
“The changes to the scheme mean we are giving Territorians more choice to the battery they want while making sure we are supporting our grid, and further stabilising it.
“Local businesses and local families are benefiting from this scheme – whether it’s receiving the work now to install the PV and Battery system, or saving on their electricity bill in the future – this is a win-win for the Territory.”
Eva Lawler, Minister for Renewables and Energy
Along with extending the scheme, the Territory government announced procurement is underway for the 35MW Battery Energy Storage System for the Darwin to Katherine Power System.
Additionally, a $6.6 million boost towards the Renewable Remote Power Program was announced. This includes a pilot program to replace Wurrumiyanga’s – located on Bathurst Island, north of Darwin – diesel power supply with that of renewable technology.
