Solar Power and the Need for Greater Energy Storage in Australia

Rapid advancements in Australia's solar power generation have accentuated the need for enhanced energy storage capabilities. Jason Froud, General Manager at state-owned West Australian power provider Synergy, emphasized the revolutionary nature of electricity storage. He notes that historically, electricity had to be generated at the exact moment it was consumed. But with the advent of storage, "you can store it and then use it when it's required," Froud said.

Synergy has recently commissioned a large-scale battery south of Perth, capable of delivering up to 100 MW for two hours, showcasing the industry's focus on storage. As the national power grid pivots away from conventional fossil fuels to renewable sources, electricity storage becomes paramount, especially during springtime when solar output reaches peak levels.

The proliferation of rooftop solar installations is evident in the recent records being set across Australia's main electricity systems. Alex Wonhas, Director of the Energy Corporation of New South Wales, pointed out the dominant role of rooftop solar in the current electricity landscape, highlighting that over three million households now use solar panels. Consequently, the reliance on the traditional grid is decreasing substantially.

However, the ebb and flow of solar energy present challenges for grid stability. Batteries and other storage solutions are seen as pivotal in addressing these issues. "I think we need to be much more strategic in what we do with storage... in the middle of the day this storage can really absorb some of that excess solar and then release it, in particular in the early evening period when power will be really important," asserted Dr. Wonhas.

Various initiatives are being introduced to bolster the grid. Western Power, for instance, has set up "community" batteries across Perth to harness excess solar energy. Andrew Blaver, the utility's head of changing energy solutions, likened batteries to the "Swiss army knife technology for the network." They optimize the usage of renewable energy and help manage constraints on the network.

In addition, businesses like Plico are pioneering virtual power plants, aggregating solar and battery systems from individual households to enhance grid stability. "As an aggregator, we are essentially the maestro of a virtual power plant... That way the whole thing is greater than the sum of its parts," explained George Martin, Plico's Chief Technology Officer.

Whilst Australia aims to reform its energy consumption patterns, energy storage plays a pivotal role. As Froud eloquently put it: "You can start shifting load from the middle of the day and soaking up that excess rooftop solar and pumping it back into the grid at night when it's needed."

Source: ABC News, Posted 7 Oct 2023
https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-07/solar-exemplar-australia-desperately-needs-more-storage/102945846