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Batteries: a local energy storage solution

As the energy landscape changes, we’re evolving too; giving customers more choice around how they generate, use and store energy.

One way we’re doing that is through community batteries.

Our community battery program is rolling out in suburbs across the Perth metro area and regional WA. These batteries are already delivering benefits:  helping manage solar energy, support local power reliability, and ease demand on the network.

Watch the video to find out how a community battery works.

Batteries are helping shape our energy future

Energy storage is becoming a vital part of how we plan and manage the network for the long term. We’re using three types of large-scale battery systems being across the South West Interconnected Network (SWIN):

  • Large network batteries like the one in Kalbarri, which operate as part of a microgrid,
  • Community batteries placed in suburbs to store excess solar power and stabilise power flow which helps at the local transformer level,
  • Future MV (medium voltage) scale batteries, which will support the wider network at the feeder and substation level.

How a community battery works

Community batteries support local power quality and reliability for everyone, not just solar customers. They are installed in areas where the network may need upgrading or adjusting to maintain power reliability and quality. For example, a good candidate would be part of the network with ageing assets and where there is now widespread solar pushing energy into the system. By absorbing that excess energy and managing how it’s released, the battery helps balance supply and reduce strain on local infrastructure. It’s a smart solution that benefits both the community and the network. It’s a win-win for customers and the grid.  

Why are community batteries so useful?

  • Community batteries offer a range of benefits, including: balancing electricity supply and smoothing out the flow of power on the grid,
  • In some locations, such as Kalbarri, acting as a backup power supply during faults or severe weather, or as part of an independent microgrid
  • Helping reduce the need for costly network upgrades in areas that have high energy demand during peak demand hours
  • Supporting more rooftop solar by storing excess energy.

Want to know more?  Check out our community battery FAQs.

Where are the new batteries going?

We’ve already installed community batteries across the network, with more to come. Each new location is selected based on detailed analysis. We look for areas where a battery can provide the greatest benefit to the network and the community, like suburbs with high rooftop solar uptake or ageing infrastructure. Once we’ve identified the need for a community battery, we work with local government to find a suitable site.

Although not particularly large, the battery needs to be safely installed on a flat surface, close to where it can service the transformer. Aesthetics and safety matter, so we make sure the battery integrates well with the area. We’ve also partnered with indigenous artists to bring the enclosures to life with artwork.

Are community batteries safe?

Yes. We’ve safely installed 21 batteries across the SWIN so far, and each one goes through a rigorous safety process.

Our batteries can include safety features like:

  • Fire detection and suppression
  • Remote monitoring
  • Secure, locked enclosures
  • Regular inspections and maintenance

All installations meet strict Australian standards. We also follow DFES guidelines when installing batteries near bushland.

Community batteries are now widely used across global energy networks. Ours are designed to be safe, efficient, and reliable for the long haul.

What about noise?

In early installations, we found that fans could generate some noise in hot weather. We’ve since refined the design.

Today’s battery enclosures are fully contained, assisting with the acoustics. We also consider where we orient them within parklands, and work with suppliers and acoustic engineers to make sure they meet noise standards day and night.

What’s next?

Thanks to funding secured (in partnership with Synergy) through the $200 million Australian Federal Government Household Solar Grant Program, we’re expanding our battery installation program. This grant from Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEW) will be used to deploy batteries in:

  • Kinross
  • Port Kennedy
  • Bayswater
  • Stratton
  • Coogee

We’ve also secured further funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) and their Community Batteries Funding Round 1. This will enable us to deploy a further 13 low-voltage (LV) batteries, and 5 medium voltage (MV) batteries at locations across the SWIN.