Solar and battery micro-grids get funding boost for remote communities in wake of Broken Hill blackout

The New South Wales government is to spend $3 million to look at the deployment solar and battery-powered microgrids in the state’s most remote communities, particularly in the wake of the blackout in Broken Hill and the far west in last 2024.

The funding will help regional network operator Essential Energy scope the requirements of new assets required to generate and store energy in communities that often suffer from lengthy power outages.

The program is part of the state government’s broader efforts to strengthen energy reliability in the region following the electricity outages in October 2024 that stemmed from a severe storm that tore down one of the main transmission links, and the failure of Broken Hill’s diesel back up generators.

A parliamentary enquiry was subsequently set up to investigate the event and consider future preparation and mitigation strategies in place by electricity providers in Far West NSW.

“In helping respond to the Far West electricity supply disruption in October 2024, I saw first-hand how important a reliable electricity supply is to regional and remote communities,” said Liam Ryan, the executive director for energy infrastructure at the state government’s department of climate change, energy, the environment, and water (DCCEEW).

“These microgrid projects could improve energy security, reduce reliance on diesel and help communities stay connected when they need it most.

“Partnering with Essential Energy is one of several initiatives underway to improve electricity services in Far West NSW.”

Several projects have already been proposed for the region, including a solar-powered microgrid for White Cliffs.

Pre-feasibility work funded by the new investment will also examine how a proposed solar-powered microgrid in Tibooburra in the state’s far northwest could update the town’s existing diesel-backed system, helping to improve network reliability and security for locals.

The program will also explore battery storage options to support the nearby communities of Milparinka and Packsaddle.

Essential Energy will submit its findings to the state government before making a decision to progress into the next development stages.

Luke Jenner, chief assets and digital officer at Essential Energy, said long distances, extreme weather and fuel supply lines can all affect energy security.

“This pre-feasibility work is an important first step in assessing whether local solar generation and battery storage can provide a more resilient, practical and sustainable solution for communities including White Cliffs, Tibooburra, Milparinka and Packsaddle,” he said.

To join more than 29,000 others and get the latest clean energy news delivered straight to your inbox, for free, click here to subscribe to our free daily newsletter.