Sunverge Customer AGL launches world’s largest virtual power plant
Staff Writer |
Sunverge Energy is partnering with Australia energy retailer AGL and the federal government’s Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), to develop the world’s largest Virtual Power Plant (VPP).
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Using cloud-based software, the VPP directs energy storage units to operate in unison to meet peak energy demand across an entire community or service area, helping consumers utilize their own rooftop-generated solar or stored solar power during peak demand periods and reduce their power bills.
Energy storage systems not part of a VPP are unable to provide services to the grid or to benefit from the intelligent energy management provided by the grid.
By contrast, when storage systems operate as part of a VPP the ultimate result is a stronger and more reliable power grid, more efficient energy management and greater value and long-term bill reductions for consumers.
The AGL virtual power plant will be capable of storing 7 megawatt hours of energy, with an output equivalent to a 5-megawatt solar peaking plant, enough power for 1,000 homes.
It will also provide greater grid stability, demonstrate alternative ways to manage peaks in demand and support the higher penetration of intermittent, renewable generation on the grid.
The project will be rolled out in three phases over a period of approximately 18 months.
In the first phase, running until April 2017, the first 150 customers in metropolitan Adelaide will be eligible to purchase a discounted Sunverge SIS 5kW/7.7kWh energy storage system for AUS $3,500, which includes hardware, software and installation.
For customers with sufficient excess solar generation, this is expected to result in a seven–year payback period. Consumers currently without solar will be able to purchase a solar system of the appropriate size for their needs with their battery.
Later phases will see an offering to narrower zones within metropolitan Adelaide where peak demand management and other network support services can be demonstrated. ■