Transcript for Things to consider when embarking on a battery project video

If you’re interested in installing a Neighbourhood battery, it’s vital to do your homework.

Batteries aren’t going to be the best solution for every situation, so here’s some things you might consider if you are thinking of installing one.

The main thing to consider when embarking on a battery project is the problem you are seeking to address, which could include:

• the cost of electricity
• outages
• poor power quality
• the desire for 100% renewables, or
• something else?

Other things to contemplate when embarking on a battery project include:

• Upfront and ongoing costs. Batteries can be expensive to set up and run.
• You’ll need to select the right battery for your needs taking into consideration battery size, chemistry, noise and cost.
• You’ll need to consult with local residents, which can take time and stakeholder skills.
• You’ll need an appropriate place to site your battery. Which can mean getting community as well as landowner approval.
• As batteries are a new technology, navigating their regulations, tariffs and retail arrangements can be complex.

Alternatives to a neighbourhood battery, which could be cheaper and/or more straight forward, include:

• improved energy efficiency such as insulation or replacing appliances
• solar bulk buys
• water heat pump bulk buys
• household battery bulk buys
• purchasing GreenPower
• speaking to your local Distribution Network Service Provider about other solutions to network issues.