Grants of up to $400,000 are available for community groups, not-for-profits, businesses and investors through the Victorian Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program.
Up to $6.63 million is available under the program’s third round, with applications closing Monday, September 15.
Neighbourhood batteries are designed to lower power bills, store renewable energy, generate revenue to reinvest in communities and provide a stable energy supply.
They can service around 60 properties, and often store energy from rooftop solar to be used when needed.
Energy and Resources Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the state was investing heavily in battery infrastructure.
“We’re strengthening our energy reliability, driving down electricity prices and leading the transition to renewables,” she said.
According to Climate Council, Victoria has the most operational community-scale batteries in the country, with 140 being installed statewide in June.
Climate Council director Greg Bourne said batteries were key to taking advantage of available renewable energy.
“Around 40 per cent of our main energy grid is powered by sun and wind,” he said.
“Batteries are our bridge to a 21st-century energy grid; keeping the lights on in our homes, schools and workplaces.”
Nine councils, including Campaspe, are being given priority for neighbourhood battery funding, as they did not receive grants through the previous two rounds.
Organisations wanting to put together a business case and submit a funding application can use the Neighbourhood Battery Business Case Tool.
The tool helps community groups build a case for their project and develop a stronger application for government funding.
To learn more and access the tool, visit energy.vic.gov.au/grants/neighbourhood-batteries/tools-and-resources
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