Trentham is set to become more energy-resilient thanks to a $400,000 grant for a battery storage and solar PV installation at The Mechanics Trentham.
The funding was obtained by the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance through the Victorian Government’s Neighbourhood Battery Program as part of a broader effort led by CVGA in partnership with ten regional councils, including Hepburn Shire Council. An energy backup system comprised of a 100kW/280kWh battery and additional 30kW solar PV system has been installed to strengthen the community’s ability to withstand power outages caused by extreme weather events.
In the event of a grid failure, The Mechanics, designated as the town’s emergency relief centre, will be able to provide refuge for up to 200 people for a week.
In addition to its role in emergency preparedness, the battery system will generate long-term financial and environmental benefits. Excess electricity produced by the solar panels will be sold, with surplus funds directed toward sustainability projects throughout Hepburn Shire. The system will also integrate with Trentham Sustainability Group’s (TSG) vision for a town-wide microgrid, which aims to provide backup power for key residential and commercial properties in the event of grid failures.
Trentham Sustainability Group has been advocating for energy resilience since a major storm event in June 2021 left the town without power. Initial feasibility studies, funded by the Hepburn Shire Council and the Trentham & Districts Community Bank, laid the groundwork for this project. The group continues to work on a broader plan to develop an “islandable microgrid” for central Trentham, ensuring essential services remain operational during extended outages.
Consultants have been engaged to deliver a Technical Analysis for a larger battery and generator which will be based on the Market Street transformer, next to the public toilet block. This currently services 33 commercial residences and 102 residential properties. In the event of a grid failure, these premises in the town centre will still have power.
Closer to Daylesford, Hepburn Energy is focused on a community battery at their wind farm at Leonards Hill. The battery will be 5MWh (5,000kWh) installation. Civil works have commenced and the battery will be installed later this year.
Local leaders have welcomed the funding, with Hepburn Shire Mayor Cr Don Henderson emphasizing the increasing need for energy resilience as extreme weather events become more frequent. “This grant is an excellent step toward making The Mechanics Trentham a sustainable and energy-efficient community hub,” said Cr Henderson.
Brian Hood, Chair of Trentham & Districts Community Bank, praised the collaborative effort behind the project. “The battery is a huge step forward for Trentham, not only improving energy security but also supporting our goal of a future microgrid.”
As the project moves forward, the Trentham community can look forward to a more reliable power supply and a strengthened emergency response system, ensuring that residents are better prepared for future challenges.
This article is based on a media release from Hepburn Shire Council with input from Mathew Nickson of the Trentham sustainability Group.
