By Matthew Sims
Moorabool would soon receive crucial back-up power systems as part of a $7.5 million commitment from the state government.
The investment would deliver batteries and rooftop solar systems on community buildings to act as relief hubs in the event of a prolonged power outage, allowing residents to shower, heat food and charge devices, including locations within Blackwood, Daylesford and Lancefield.
In response to the 2021 storms and the threat of future climate-related extreme weather events, the state government looked at those impacted by the storms to determine the best locations for the hub, including in Moorabool and Macedon Ranges.
Investigations looked at a number of energy resilience solutions for these towns, including energy back-up systems for essential services and community hubs, such as rooftop solar systems, batteries, diesel generators and larger town-scale energy solutions.
The state government has identified 24 towns and would soon begin work with energy providers, local governments and emergency services organisations to deliver the new energy solutions.
The studies were informed by the Electricity Distribution Network Resilience Review‘s Expert Panel Final Recommendations Report.
The report recommended a number of improvements to the network’s overall resilience, including requiring distribution businesses to conduct after action reviews to improve outcomes for customers impacted by prolonged power outages, recommending distribution businesses improve their communication with customers before and after prolonged power outages and recommending distribution businesses introduce new obligations to improve the prioritisation of the restoration of power following an outage.
Energy, Environment and Climate Action Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the investment was part of a larger plan to secure energy supply, drive down power bills and cut emissions to fight against climate change and limit its impact.
“With climate change set to increase the frequency and intensity storms and bushfires, we’re developing energy resilience solutions to protect Victorian communities during extreme weather events,” she said.
