Energy Queensland and GreenSync to create virtual power plant

Friday, 08 September, 2017

Energy Queensland’s Energy Services division and GreenSync are partnering to create a virtual power plant.

Treasurer Curtis Pitt officially launched the virtual power plant this week. Pitt said the virtual power plant was a cloud-based, load control system created to manage extreme electricity demand during severe temperature events.

“This virtual power plant system will have a positive impact on the affordability, reliability and sustainability of electricity supply during these severe events,” he said.

“This partnership creates a real view to putting downward pressure on the cost of electricity for customers, with a particular focus on helping businesses manage their input costs.

“The partnership will also actively create new jobs in Queensland, specifically in regional Queensland with up to 10 new roles being formed in Townsville for this initiative.

“The deployment of this technology over the coming months and years is also going to require a significant workforce for installation with the majority of work being completed by local, regional small businesses and Energy Queensland’s internal labour force where applicable.”

Energy Queensland Executive General Manager for Energy Services Charles Rattray said the long-term partnership between Energy Queensland and GreenSync would allow Energy Services to innovate and deliver the best possible solutions for customers.

“We are seeking to manufacture some of the hardware required to deliver this new technology right here in Queensland.

“Under this partnership, we are enrolling customers into the virtual power plant platform ahead of peak summer demand.

“This innovative approach will also increase network resilience through increased automation and speed of response, grouping assets as portfolios to react to challenges and seize opportunities.”

GreenSync CEO Phil Blythe said, “The application of GreenSync’s technology is going underpin the broader strategy for Energy Queensland and set the foundation for their energy future.”