The Energy Transformation Taskforce has released a five-year plan to better integrate Distributed Energy Resources (DER) in how Western Australia produces, manages and consumes electricity.
Minister for Energy, Bill Johnston said rooftop solar panels, batteries, electric vehicles and micro-grids were transforming the State’s electricity system.
“These small-scale devices present challenges and opportunities for the way we produce, manage and consume electricity in our State,” Mr Johnston said.
“Almost one in three households in the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) have rooftop solar, and this is expected to reach one in two over the next decade.”
He said the Distributed Energy Resources Roadmap was needed in order to meet the challenges and harness the potential for cleaner, more affordable energy.
“Actions will include pilots to determine the best ways to overcome technical, regulatory and market barriers to integrate DER into our grid, including additional community batteries,” Mr Johnston said.
“Alongside the delivery of the roadmap, the State Government is working with the energy sector to carefully monitor any impacts COVID-19 is having on the power system.”
He said building a responsive and resilient power system would allow Western Australia to successfully manage risks over time.
“COVID-19 is a timely reminder of the importance of this,” Mr Johnston said.
Chair of the Energy Transformation Taskforce, Stephen Edwell said a major transformation of Western Australia’s electricity sector was under way.
“Households and businesses can help make the most of our abundant solar generation by moving some of their electricity use from the evening to the middle of the day,” Mr Edwell said.
The Taskforce‘s 77-page Distributed Energy Resources Roadmap can be accessed at this PS News link.
