Neighbourhood batteries coming to Queenscliff

THE Victorian government’s $42 million 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program is set to revolutionise local energy systems on the Bellarine, with the Borough of Queenscliffe announced as a beneficiary in the initiative’s first round.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said that Mondo Queenscliff is spearheading the project with the installation of four neighbourhood batteries across Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff, aiming to inject 400kW/1000kWh of energy storage into the local grid.

“Congratulations to Mondo, the Borough of Queenscliffe, Queenscliffe Climate Action Now and the broader Queenscliff community for their advocacy for a green energy transition,” Ms Marchant said.

“I am proud to be able to support their efforts in working towards a renewable future.”

This initiative, which secured $1.2 million in funding, marks the start of a broader effort to deploy 25 similar battery systems throughout Victoria.

Spanning 20 towns, these projects will collectively contribute over 4.2 megawatt-hours of additional storage capacity, enhancing the reliability of local energy networks and allowing more households to embrace rooftop solar.

By absorbing excess renewable energy during peak production times and redistributing it when demand is high, the neighbourhood batteries are expected to lower energy costs for the entire community, not just solar panel owners.

Queenscliffe Mayor Cr Isabelle Tolhurst hailed the announcement as a significant milestone for the community, acknowledging years of advocacy and effort towards sustainable energy solutions.

“This is a tremendous win for our community and an acknowledgment of considerable work and advocacy from community over many years.”

An upcoming community information session on April 10, hosted by Mondo and the Borough of Queenscliffe, aims to brief residents on the project’s details and future steps.

The community information sessions will help inform the location of the batteries.