Construction starts on virtual power plants in regional schools

• Work starts on phase two of Synergy's Schools Virtual Power Plant Project
• Battery and solar systems to be installed at Kalbarri, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie

Work has started at seven regional schools installing solar panels and commercial batteries as part of Synergy's Schools Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Project.

The schools will have solar systems and a commercial sized battery installed and operational in the 2024 school year.

A VPP is a network of energy resources such as rooftop solar panels and batteries that are combined or 'aggregated' to generate, store and distribute electricity.

The VPPs will enable the schools to store the energy generated from their solar systems and better manage energy use while also helping improve grid stability.

The seven locations joining the 17-school pilot across Western Australia include:

Kalbarri

• Kalbarri District High School

Geraldton

• Champion Bay Senior High School
• Geraldton Senior High School
• Waggrakine Primary School

Kalgoorlie

• Hannans Primary School
• Kalgoorlie Primary School
• O'Connor Primary School

The regional expansion of the Schools VPP project is funded through the Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund, part of a total $8.8 million State Government investment.

For more information, visit www.synergy.net.au/Our-energy/For-tomorrow/Schools-VPP-Pilot-Project

Comments attributed to Energy Minister Bill Johnston:

"The Cook Government continues to invest in innovative energy solutions for WA's energy future. We're excited to expand this program to regional schools into Kalbarri, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie.

"Virtual Power Plants have the potential to play an important role in WA's future as we build more renewable energy assets."

Comments attributed to Education Minister Dr Tony Buti:

"The Virtual Power Plant project is a terrific program that is supporting schools in lowering their energy bills, while also stabilising the broader energy system.

"The project offers WA students the chance to learn more about how energy is produced and used - equipping them with STEM skills and knowledge, which is a really important part of their education."

Comments attributed to Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton:

"It's great that three Geraldton schools will be able to experience the many benefits of renewable energy technologies.

"The Virtual Power Plants at Champion Bay Senior High School, Geraldton Senior High School and Waggrakine Primary School will help reduce their power bills and improve power quality in the community."