Virtual power plants for WA schools

Seven schools in regional Western Australia will receive solar panels and commercial batteries as part of Synergy’s Schools Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Project.

The schools will have solar systems and a commercial-sized battery installed and operational in the 2024 school year.

A VPP is a network of energy resources such as rooftop solar panels and batteries that are combined to generate, store and distribute electricity.

The VPPs will enable the schools to store the energy generated from their solar systems and better manage energy use, while also helping improve grid stability.

“The Virtual Power Plant project is a terrific program that is supporting schools in lowering their energy bills, while also stabilising the broader energy system,” said Education Minister Dr Tony Buti.

“The project offers WA students the chance to learn more about how energy is produced and used — equipping them with STEM skills and knowledge, which is a really important part of their education.”

The seven regional schools to join the 17-school pilot across Western Australia are variously located in Kalbarri, Geraldton and Kalgoorlie. The regional expansion of the Schools VPP project is funded through the Schools Clean Energy Technology Fund, part of a total $8.8 million state government investment.

Geraldton MLA Lara Dalton said it was great that three Geraldton schools would be able to experience the many benefits of renewable energy technologies.

“The Virtual Power Plants at Champion Bay Senior High School, Geraldton Senior High School and Waggrakine Primary School will help reduce their power bills and improve power quality in the community,” Dalton said.

Image credit: iStock.com/Halfpoint