Getting Smarter with the Grid Now

Tuesday 6 August 2024: Endeavour Energy welcomed the release of Energy Network Australia’s The Time is Now report today which highlights opportunities to leverage electricity distribution infrastructure for a faster and more cost-effective path to a net-zero energy system in Australia.

By maximising rooftop solar, integrating batteries locally and expanding EV charging infrastructure, the report finds we are better positioned to achieve Australia’s renewables targets and in 2030 could save customers around $160 per year while avoiding $7 billion in overall system costs.

“Endeavour Energy is advocating for customer-led reforms that deliver a faster, more cost-effective pathway for Australia to achieve a net-zero energy system,” said General Manager Future Grid and Asset Management, Colin Crisafulli.

Independently modelled by L.E.K Consulting, the report calls for immediate policy decisions and changes to regulatory frameworks to:

  • enable creation of local energy hubs by linking locally generated solar with unused capacity in the grid for the benefit of all community
  • incentivise commercial uptake of solar on existing rooftops for sharing with local community
  • reduce range anxiety and deliver a more equitable rollout of electric vehicle charging infrastructure at pace by allowing networks to install and maintain kerbside charging
  • enhance local battery storage capabilities to soak up surplus solar
  • connect and coordinate energy resources so distribution networks work harder and smarter for everyone.

“The time is now to act decisively towards a greener, more efficient energy landscape delivered at a lower cost for customers,” said Colin.

“We need to look beyond the traditional role of distribution networks as ‘poles and wires’ and unlock its potential to better support customer choices and de-risk the energy transition.”

Find out more about the immediate, pragmatic actions for industry and policy makers can take to unlock this potential to optimise our energy system here.


Published on Aug 6th 2024