Solar and storage back-up power pilot wins Vic govt funding

A pilot project to design and manufacture a solar storage control system and software technology kit in Victoria, rather than using imported equipment, has been named as the latest recipient of the state Labor government’s $20 million New Energy Jobs Fund.
State energy minister Lily D’Ambrosio said on Monday that the government had awarded the project, led by local building design and construction company ARVIO, $825,000 of grant funding, towards installing 200 solar and storage kits in houses, commercial buildings and community facilities across the state, largely to provide back-up electricity during power outages.
Last October, wild storms in Victoria downed poles and wires throughout the state’s south-east, leaving thousands without power – except for a lucky few, for whom technology came to the rescue.
But, as we have noted before on One Step Off The Grid, not all solar and battery storage systems have the capability to keep houses in power if the grid goes down – although that is increasingly becoming a key requirement of households and businesses looking to invest in the technologies.
In the ARVIO-led pilot project, each kit will feature predictive weather control capabilities, allowing the system to charge the battery before storms to ensure residences have adequate power for any potential extended outages.
The $6.17 million project – which also involves companies Solar Station Alpha, Selectronic Australia, Imark Communication and Diamond Energy – was one of 21 selected from more than 50 applications for funding in round two of the Andrews government’s New Energy Jobs Fund. It is expected to create 20 full time jobs.
“This project is a fantastic example of how our New Energy Jobs Fund is creating more jobs and improving renewable energy capabilities,” said Minister D’Ambrosio in comments on Monday.
“We’re excited to see how this pilot project can deliver better security and reliability for Victorians.”