During National Climate Action Week (March 9-15 2026), Federal Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips has announced the Albanese Labor Government is rolling out new community batteries that will help more households share in cheaper, cleaner energy and strengthen local grids as more rooftop solar comes online.
“Through Commonwealth ARENA funding, we’re rolling out four community batteries in the Shoalhaven, which will help thousands of households cut their power bills,” Mrs Phillips said.
“A 50 kW ground mount battery was installed at Old Erowal Bay last month, while two community batteries at Sussex Inlet, and another one at Cudmirrah are expected to be installed over the next few months.”
The Community Batteries for Household Solar program is delivering 400 community batteries across Australia, making our energy system fairer and ensuring all Aussies can reap rewards from this renewable resource, regardless of if they have solar or not, are renters or homeowners.
“I know people in Gilmore are doing it tough, and these community batteries will bring much needed cost-of-living relief for people in Sussex Inlet, Cudmirrah and Old Erowal Bay,” Mrs Phillips said.
“This is a win-win for our community, providing access to cheaper, cleaner energy and allowing households without solar to access the benefits of energy storage without the upfront cost.
“By storing excess solar energy during the day and releasing it when demand is high, these batteries will help lower energy bills and ensure a more reliable power supply for local families.”
Local residents can sign up to the savings with Ausgrid’s retail partners Origin and EnergyAustralia. The network estimates this could save households up to $200 a year.
Community batteries deliver lower energy costs and boost reliability by absorbing excess rooftop solar during the day and feeding it back to the grid at night. They can also avoid costly upgrades to the electricity network’s pole and wires.
Eligible households can register interest here: Check your ESaaS Eligibility - Ausgrid
