A new solar-powered microgrid has launched in Monbulk, Victoria, to safeguard the community from prolonged blackouts during extreme weather. This installation is part of a $7.5 million state government initiative designed to boost energy resilience in areas prone to fires and storms.
Monbulk RSL gets 15 kW Solar Array with Battery Storage
Installed at the Monbulk RSL, a 15 kW rooftop solar array paired with a 24 kW / 48 kWh battery storage system is set to provide a reliable energy supply for this small community in the Yarra Ranges, about 40 kilometers east of Melbourne, during power outages caused by storms or bushfires.
Image: Collected
The system integrates an existing 9 kW rooftop PV array with 6 kW of new REC solar panels and is supported by 48 kWh of battery storage from Powerplus, three Selectronic inverters, an Ubi Smart Energy Controller from Mondo, and a 44 kVA diesel generator for backup.
Microgrid Launched Under $7.5M Energy Resilience Program
The fully standalone, grid-connected system is part of the Victorian government’s $7.5 million (USD 4.99 million) Energy Resilience Solutions (ERS) program, according to AusNet. During network outages, the system will seamlessly switch to its backup supply.
The ERS initiative was launched in response to the 2021 storms, which severely disrupted the state’s electricity supply and underscored the growing threat of climate-related weather events. The program has allocated funds to install solar panels, battery systems, and backup generators in community buildings across 26 towns particularly vulnerable to network disruptions.
These community hubs are designed to give residents affected by storms a place to cook, charge devices, and access information during prolonged outages. The communities will also benefit year-round from the affordable renewable energy supplied to these host buildings.
Crucial Role of Renewable Energy
Victorian Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio emphasized that renewable energy is critical for community energy security, a point underscored by the February storms that left over 530,000 customers statewide without power.
“We’re ensuring that in the event of outages, locals can depend on a safe and connected community space,” she said.
Member for Monbulk, Daniela De Martino, stressed the importance of building energy resilience within communities, noting that climate change is expected to intensify storms and bushfires.
“Given the increasing intensity and frequency of weather events like the February 2024 storms, it’s crucial that Monbulk’s electricity distribution system can support residents during outages and ensure prompt reconnection for all Victorians,” she emphasized.
“Through this ERS initiative, we’re guaranteeing that the RSL will have the necessary power during blackouts to maintain essential services such as lighting, device charging and access to hot water.”
Most of the systems planned under the ERS program are now installed, with the remaining projects in Healesville and Apollo Bay expected to be completed by this September.
This initiative demonstrates that renewable energy solutions do more than just combat climate change by reducing reliance on fossil fuels. By using clean energy, communities can enhance their resilience while contributing to a more sustainable and secure energy future.
