The case for community batteries

Source: YEF

CutlerMerz was engaged by the Yarra Energy Foundation (YEF) to undertake economic modelling of the business case for community scale battery energy storage in urban settings.

The support provided included the following:

• Detailing the main opportunities present for a community battery in the given study area and other services available which are not dependent on the location of the battery system

• The optimal sizing for the community battery in the given study area based on a range of factors, including the size of the subscribed customer base and access to rooftop solar PV

• The financials of the battery, including expected capital required, revenue, costs, return on investments over the lifetime of the battery across scenarios with varying economic factors

• The business model and operating framework of the community battery

The economic modelling provided was able to assist YEF in securing the Victorian Government’s grant for Melbourne’s first inner-suburban community battery located in the City of Yarra. More information on the trial can be found here.