The Australian Government has committed $25.6 million to back 20 microgrid feasibility studies under Round Two of the Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund.
With the $25.6 million commitment, the Government intends to continue supporting the supply of secure, reliable and affordable power for regional and remote communities. This support will drive economic growth and help these communities get ahead.
The microgrid feasibility studies will investigate whether or not establishing a microgrid or upgrading existing off-grid technologies would better meet the energy needs of Australia’s regional and remote communities.
Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said that these communities face unique energy challenges due to their location. Because of this, the Australian Government is committed to ensuring that they are not disadvantaged by unreliable and expensive energy.
“The Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund is all about shoring up the supply of secure, reliable and affordable energy for regional Australians and empowering communities to make the choices to best suit their energy needs,” Minister Taylor said.
“Every Australian – no matter where they live – should be confident that they will have the power they need when they need it and at an affordable price. Delivering reliable and affordable energy to regional and remote communities will provide them with greater economic security and help them grow and prosper.”
The 20 microgrid feasibility studies are currently located from very remote Indigenous communities to rural farming communities in every state across Australia.
The studies came about due to microgrids’ ability to reduce regional communities’ reliance on diesel generation, bringing down the price of electricity bills for households and businesses and cutting emissions.
A further $50 million for grants has also been allocated to support microgrid pilot studies in regional communities. These grants will be administered by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
The Australian Government is providing around $45 million for feasibility studies in over 110 Australian communities through the Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund.