Palaszczuk Government helps to fast track energy storage industry

Queensland’s renewable future is taking another step forward with the Palaszczuk Government looking for businesses to help fast track battery energy storage.

Energy Minister Dr Anthony Lynham is urging businesses to get involved in the Interest free loans for solar and storage program which will see 1500 battery energy storage systems installed across the state later this year.

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk and Dr Lynham on Monday launched the interest-free solar system loan program, which will see 3500 households gain packages for up to $4500 to install a solar system. Battery storage is the next step.

“In Queensland we have one of the highest penetrations of rooftop solar in the world - currently there are more than 479,000 households with rooftop solar, and the next chapter in our renewable journey is to store this solar power via battery systems,” Dr Lynham said.

“Soon battery energy storage will be a standard part of our power technology mix –consumers will have the choice to use their solar power when it suits them– not just when the sun is shining.

“And to help kick-start its uptake, later in 2018 the Palaszczuk Government will be offering households and small businesses grants and interest free loans for the purchase and installation of battery systems.

“We are calling for a panel of pre-qualified battery retailers to supply and install the 1500 battery systems for households and businesses as part of our Interest free loans for solar and storage program.

“These retailers must have a demonstrated commitment to safety, quality and industry best practice, and this tender is open to companies big and small across Queensland.

“If your business is a signatory to the Clean Energy Council Solar Retailer Code of Conduct, or an equivalent retailer code, or if you are applying to be a signatory, then I encourage you to get involved.

“In late 2018 the Interest free loans for solar and storage program will offer grants of up to $3000 and interest-free loans of up to $10,000 for systems with battery storage.

“Queenslanders who receive a loan or grant will need to purchase their storage system from one of the panel’s retailers.

“Not only is this government providing innovative ways to access renewable energy storage, it’s also creating employment opportunities and helping to grow the state’s renewable industry,” Dr Lynham said.

Businesses wanting to become a pre-qualified battery retailer for the Interest Free Loans for Solar and Storage program can access the tender documents through QTender.

Tenders are open to 24 July 2018.

Media enquiries: David Potter 0428 411 617