Queensland announces local flow-battery trial

The Queensland Government has announced a $179 million investment in the next stages of its local network-connected batteries program, including trials of locally made flow batteries for community energy storage.

The funding, sourced from the Queensland Renewable Energy and Hydrogen Jobs Fund, will see 12 new local network-connected batteries installed across the state. The package will also enable the installation of two flow batteries from Queensland manufacturers.

This will enable Energy Queensland to help develop a local battery industry, provide a proving ground for the technology and developing pathways for flow battery inclusion in future battery programs.

Stage one of the program delivered five network-connected batteries built at Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Toowoomba, Townsville and Yeppoon. Stage two is currently in delivery, with battery construction underway on 12 batteries in Cairns (two sites), Townsville, Mackay, Emerald, Mundubbera, Gladstone, Howard, Toowoomba, Raby Bay, Morayfield and Bribie Island in the Brisbane area.

Stage three will deliver 12 additional 4 MW (8 MWh) batteries. Energy Queensland will now scope locations, with Mooloolaba, Runaway Bay, Cornubia, Jimboomba, Woodridge, Yatala, Barcaldine, Dalby Central, Glenella, Toowoomba, Milchester and Maryborough currently being considered.

Stage four includes the trial of two flow batteries. Sites are currently being considered in Burrum Heads and Ipswich.

The government says the battery program is central to the Queensland Energy and Jobs Plan by maximising the benefits of rooftop solar and bolstering the electricity distribution network. The batteries are in areas with high solar penetration and will be used to support the energy network during times of peak demand.

Each battery has the same capacity as the electricity required to support an average home for more than a year.

“We have the highest rate of rooftop solar anywhere in Australia, so it’s only right that we equip our energy network to keep pace with the high rates of solar generation,” said Premier Steven Miles. “This battery program is fundamental to our success in achieving 70% renewable energy by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050.

“Additionally, flow battery development is an opportunity for Queensland battery manufacturers — supporting good jobs, training and supply chains right around the state.”

“By basing the batteries in communities where there are large volumes of rooftop solar means renewable energy will be generated locally, stored locally and then used locally, reducing the pressure on the network,” said Peter Price, Energy Queensland’s Chief Engineer. “With these battery projects we’re aiming for a win-win-win scenario that achieves the energy trifecta for communities throughout the state — affordability, security and sustainability.”

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