By Jacinta Agostinelli
A renewable future for Yea
2030Yea Community Energy, together with the Yea Wetland Discovery Centre Inc held an information evening for Yea residents – ‘A renewable future for Yea’. Our two speakers, Dr Lasantha Meegahapola and William Ertler, gave simple and engaging explanations of three very technical apsects of a renewable future: microgrids, battery storage and load-shifting. I’m sure we all came away with new information to share with family, friends and neighbours. Thank you to our two speakers and to all who attended either online or in-person.
Microgrids and battery storage
RMIT Associate Professor, Lasantha Meegahapola talks about a microgrid and battery storage system for Yea.
Dr Lasantha Meegahapola from RMIT University talked about microgrids and community batteries in the context of Yea township. A microgrid may be possible for Yea in the future, if the government makes changes to the relevant policies and regulations. Dr Lasantha used familiar language to explain some of the more complex aspects of microgrid technology.
You can view Lasantha’s presentation here.
Load shifting
William Ertler, renewable energy engineer, talks about his Honours thesis findings and load-shifting.
Our second speaker, William Ertler, spoke about load shifting. When solar energy is the source of power, load shifting refers to the practice of using energy when it is most available. For example, most electric hot water systems in Yea heat up over night, but in Yea we produce most of our energy, that is, solar energy, during the day. It therefore makes sense to shift when we heat water to the middle of the day. In effect, our hot water systems would soak up excess solar generated electricity and act like a form of energy storage.
Load shifting is a win, win, win. It benefits all electricity users and not just those with solar systems. It also benefits grid operators. Electricity consumers with solar save money by using their day time solar energy. Grid operators benefit because when less solar generated power is fed into the grid, they will not need to make expensive upgrades to the electricity network. Less expensive upgrades will keep electricity prices low for everyone. Win, win, win!
You can view William’s presentation here.
2030Yea Community Energy – your source of renewable energy information
Too much information is overwhelming. One of 2030Yea Community Energy’s objectives is to bring you accurate, up to date information about all things renewable energy, particularly as it relates to Yea. Become a member of 2030Yea Community Energy Inc and we will keep you informed about renewable and community energy and 2030Yea activities. Join here. Susbscribe to the 2030Yea Community Energy newsletter, Watt Matters, by clicking here (members automatically receive Watt Matters newsletter).
For more information from our guest speakers Dr Lasantha Meegahapola and William Ertler, check out the 2030Yea blogs ‘The future is here’ and ‘Your hot water system could be the best solar storage of all‘.
