By Callum Ludwig
The Federal Labor party has promised to deliver community batteries to the electorate of Casey in their push to support renewable energy sources if they are elected.
The announcement was made today at the Yarra Centre in Yarra Junction by Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen and prospective Labor candidate for the electorate of Casey Bill Brindle.
Mr Bowen said the delivery of renewable energy projects will be a signature of an Albanese government.
“We’ve committed to a goal of 80% renewable energy sources and reducing emissions by 43% by 2030,” he said.
“Over 400 homes in Yarra Junction have solar panels but only two have batteries to store energy. A community battery will provide somewhere to store energy, and will reduce power bills and emissions.”
Mr Bowen said the promise will only be able to be delivered if a Labor Federal Government is in power after the May 21 election, and the process will be even easier if Mr Brindle is elected in Casey.
In the 2019 election, Mr Brindle received 26.6 percent of the vote in Casey, losing out on the seat to Liberal MP Tony Smith on a two-party preferred result who was 9.28 percent ahead.
Mr Bowen said Labor would work with Yarra Ranges Council to find a suitable spot for the community battery.
“In a place like Yarra Junction with such a strong community spirit, it’s important to look after one of the most beautiful places in the world,” he said.
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child also attended and noted the introduction of a community battery would help support the embracing of renewables in the Yarra Ranges and compliments ongoing renewable energy projects in the area like the community-owned $1.2 million mini-hydro power plant in Warburton.
Other renewable energy initiatives in the Yarra Ranges have included the Council signing on to VECO, the Victorian Energy Collaboration, the largest ever emissions reduction project by local government in Australia and partnering with Solar Savers for businesses and residents.
