Networks Renewed

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The Networks Renewed project investigated pathways to increase the amount of renewable energy in Australia by paving the way for small-scale solar photovoltaic (PV) and battery storage installations to improve the quality and reliability of electricity in Australia’s distribution networks.Two demonstrations focussing on voltage management, recruited 90 customers in three locations across NSW and VIC under new commercial models for network-related businesses.Key resultsThe demonstrations proved that both solar and batteries can support network voltage. Its success opens the door to new business opportunities based on the premise that rooftop solar can be an asset to everyone. The overall value of the project was in bringing DNSP partners one step closer to being comfortable with replacing traditional network-side solutions with distributed energy options.The other major outcomes were:proving realistic alternatives to network-side voltage solutionsmaking voltage support services from solar and batteries accessible to network businessesobtaining good results for participating customersdetermining the network value of voltage support provided by customers.Future workWith the project’s success, all Australian network businesses now have a workable precedent for using smart inverters for network support services themselves, or contracting third parties to provide these services independently. This was socialised with different network service providers through knowledge sharing roadshows at the end of the project.The next step is progressing this technical solution to a viable mainstream option. Networks Renewed created a practical understanding of all the moving parts needed for customers to provide support for the electricity grid Australia needs.

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