Qld Govt-led residential developments go 100% solar and battery

Published Saturday, 23 January, 2021 at 10:15 AM

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning
The Honourable Dr Steven Miles

Two new Queensland Government-led residential developments in Carseldine and Oxley are leading the nation with 100% solar and battery neighbourhoods, saving homebuyers thousands of dollars in electricity.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development Steven Miles said both developments, which feature zero net energy emission homes, are showcasing innovation and sustainability, while supporting economic recovery and job creation. 

“All the Carseldine Village terrace homes and the Oxley Songbird detached residential dwellings homes will come with solar PV, battery storage systems, heat pump hot water systems, WiFi air conditioning and will be electric vehicle charger ready,” Mr Miles said

“This could save owners up to $1600 per year off their power bills.”

Minister for Energy Renewables and Hydrogen and Minister for Public Works and Procurement Mick de Brenni said that these futuristic homes were ensuring that Queensland reaches its renewable energy target of 50% by 2030.

“We know that Queenslanders want smart, efficient homes that run on clean energy because ultimately it will save them money.

“As we move to a carbon-neutral future this sort of housing design is something that we are working towards becoming the norm across Queensland with updates for the National Construction Code in the pipeline.

“The Palaszczuk Government has also helped homeowners across the state enjoy lower costs when they receive their energy accounts, with a $250 electricity rebate delivered to households last year.”

Member for Aspley Bart Mellish said the Carseldine Village development had committed to delivering net zero energy emissions with energy saving features to slash power bills.

“There will be a solar PV system in every home, with an AlphaESS solar battery to store surplus energy generated from the solar panels to provide power when the sun isn’t shining,” Mr Mellish said.

“This will save people living in terrace homes here in Carseldine money on their power bills and make living here a more sustainable choice.” 

An energy assessment found in comparing an average existing home to a similar sized energy efficient terrace home with solar PV and an AlphaESS battery system at Carseldine Village, owners could save up to $1600 per year.

The Deputy Premier said at Oxley’s Songbird development, a landmark deal with Natural Solar and Tesla will see homeowners have access to a solar PV and Tesla Powerwall package.

“Solar PV combined with a Tesla Powerwall will have on and off grid capability and the option to link into a virtual power plant to generate revenue for the homebuyer,” Mr Miles said.

“This is incredible technology which will mean that in the event of a Queensland storm or power-outage in Oxley, these homes will still have power, so they will be able to use their fridge, lights, and favourite streaming service.”

Natural Solar CEO Chris Williams said the innovation signifies the Queensland Government’s support of clean, green energy.

“Homeowners at Songbird Oxley, can expect to save up to $2000 per year, delivering a return on investment in around 5 years. With solar, you typically generate more energy than you need, so by combining with the Tesla Powerwall, it can be stored and used when needed,” he said.   

"As Australia's largest installer of solar batteries, we are proud to be at the forefront of energy innovation within new homes.

“Helping deliver this collaboration between Tesla and the Queensland Government closely aligns with our vision that all new homes across Australia should include world class leading energy efficiency on the journey to net zero carbon emissions.”

Mr Miles said both developments are demonstrating the use of innovation across different housing markets, with Carseldine Village featuring terrace homes and Songbird at Oxley catering for traditional detached homes. 

“We’re hoping to inspire more home builders and developers to design and build sustainable, net zero emission homes across Queensland,” he said.

For more information visit Carseldine Village or Songbird, Oxley

ENDS

Media contact:           Amy Hunter – 0423 651 484