The Australian Energy Council, the peak body for energy retailers and generators, welcomes the recent announcements by the New South Wales, Western Australia and Federal Governments that they will expand the battery incentive for households and small businesses.
Chief Executive, Louisa Kinnear, said, "We welcome initiatives that lower the barriers to battery adoption and encourage participation in Virtual Power Plants. Such programs allow consumers to actively contribute to the energy system while being rewarded for their flexibility.
"The expanded support that has been announced by states in tandem with the Federal Government will help unlock the full potential of consumer energy resources, while delivering benefits to both energy users and the broader grid. It is worthy of consideration by other jurisdictions given the benefits."
Ms Kinnear noted the importance of ensuring access to the benefits of energy transition for a wider group of Australians.
"Not all households are able to install solar and batteries, especially renters and those experiencing vulnerability. Encouraging participants in these schemes to connect to VPPs helps ensure a broader distribution of benefits, even for those who don't own energy assets.
"The Australian Energy Council supports practical, inclusive programs that help accelerate the shift to a more renewable energy system while also ensuring all consumers have the opportunity to benefit."
About the Australian Energy Council
The Australian Energy Council is the peak industry body for electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in the competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. AEC members generate and sell energy to 10 million homes and businesses and are major investors in renewable energy generation. The AEC supports reaching net-zero by 2050 as well as a 55 per cent emissions reduction target by 2035 and is committed to delivering the energy transition for the benefit of consumers.
