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Chris Boendermaker, from Hobartville, has already installed two batteries at his home to complement the rooftop solar panels — a decision he says has paid off.
“After a summer of blackouts and extreme weather, they’ve proven to be a self-sufficient and reliable solution we can count on,” Mr Boendermaker said. “For us, installing our own solar batteries just made sense.”
From July 1, Hawkesbury residents can take advantage of a major new federal initiative aimed at slashing energy bills and boosting the region’s transition to renewable energy.
The federal government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program officially begins this week, offering households and small businesses a discount of around 30 per cent off the cost of installing a small-scale battery system.
Federal MP for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, has welcomed the launch of the program, describing it as a key part of the government’s plan to make battery storage more accessible and help drive down energy costs.
“Many people in the Hawkesbury haven’t waited for these incentives to be in place and are already seeing the benefit of battery storage and backup for their home or business,” Ms Templeman said. “This program will give even more reason to do it. A household with existing rooftop solar could save up to $1100 extra on their power bill every year.”
Ms Templeman added that energy storage also benefits the broader grid.
“The benefit will extend beyond solar homes. Batteries help push down peak demand, which pushes down prices for everyone.”
Hobartville residents also have access to the recently completed community battery program, which supports up to 300 homes using pole-top batteries. These systems are connected to overhead power lines, making them more flood-resistant than traditional ground-based installations.
In addition to federal support, eligible households can access up to $1500 from the NSW government to connect their battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) — allowing them to feed excess energy back into the grid during high-demand periods.
“There has never been so much support to add a battery to your home, or get more out of your solar panels,” Ms Templeman said.
For information on the Federal Government home battery program: Cheaper Home Batteries Program - DCCEEW
For information about the Hobartville community batteries: Community batteries
For information on the NSW Virtual Power Plant: Connect your battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP) | NSW Climate and Energy Action
