The McGowan Government today announced Kalbarri District High School (DHS) is the latest school to take part in Synergy's Schools Virtual Power Plant (VPP) project.
A VPP is a network of energy resources such as rooftop solar panels, batteries and electric vehicles that are combined or 'aggregated' and shared with Synergy.
The 180 kilowatt-hour battery and 40 kilowatt solar system will allow Kalbarri DHS to better manage its energy use while also storing energy drawn from the network.
The Schools VPP regional expansion now includes seven new locations, including in Geraldton and Kalgoorlie, bringing the number of participating schools to 17.
Funding for the regional expansion of the Schools VPP pilot is part of the Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund, with the State Government investing $8.8 million in the program.
The battery and solar panels will be installed at Kalbarri DHS at the end of this year.
For more information, visit https://www.synergy.net.au/Our-energy/For-tomorrow/Schools-VPP-Pilot-Project
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
"The Schools Virtual Power Plant pilot is a great way for WA students to learn more about science, technology and the skills needed to build our State's energy future.
"The battery and solar panels will help Kalbarri DHS to better understand and manage the school's electricity use, while providing a great learning experience for its students."
As stated by Energy Minister Bill Johnston:
"The Schools Virtual Power Plant pilot is an important part of the McGowan Government's Distributed Energy Resources Roadmap.
"Virtual power plants can provide cost benefits, grid stability and reliability, and support the transition to a greener, cleaner energy future."
Energy Minister's office - 6552 6700
