Certified Energy Manager for Commercial & Industrial Firms | Energy Audits | Procurement | Benchmarking | Sustainability
In the remote Barkly region of Australia’s Northern Territory, about halfway between Alice Springs and Darwin, sits the small First Nations outstation of Marlinja. Home to roughly 60 people, the outback community recently celebrated the launch of what it says is the first First Nations-owned grid-connected solar microgrid in Australia. The microgrid includes a 100 kW solar array and a 136 kWh battery and took five years to complete as community members and Original Power, the non-profit developer for the project, navigated the design, fundraising, installation and commissioning process. Home to Uluru, formerly known as Ayers Rock, Australia’s Northern Territory has a rich indigenous culture. But beyond the tourist areas, remote First Nations communities in the region are plagued by energy insecurity and high energy prices. For many, electricity is provided via pre-paid meters. Like pay-as-you-go mobile phone plans, the consumer purchases the amount of electricity they expect to need for a given period of time. Once the credit runs out, the meter shuts off power to the home. In 2019, Original Power, a community-focused Aboriginal organization, partnered with the Marlinja residents to develop a renewable energy solution that would provide not only low cost, clean energy but also long-term employment opportunities for community members who will operate and maintain the microgrid. The Marlinja microgrid was partially funded by the Barkly Regional Deal, an agreement between the governments of Australia and the Northern Territory, as well as the Barkly Regional Council. The deal is a 10-year, $67.3 million (A$100.5 million) commitment to improving the productivity and livability of the Barkly region. The remainder of the $502,000 (A$750,000) project cost was covered by financial donations and technology contributions from companies like 5B, which provided the system’s solar panels. To save energy & cost for your business, contact me at https://buff.ly/2EjAMbu. #Reliability #EnergyStorage #EnergyEfficiency #Renewables #EnergyAudit #Procurement #Resilience https://buff.ly/3xwFJMj
Account Manager at Shenzhen New Lung LTD
2moThe launch of Australia's first First Nations-owned grid-connected solar microgrid in Marlinja is a commendable achievement, showcasing the power of community-driven renewable energy initiatives to address energy insecurity in remote areas. This project not only provides clean and affordable electricity but also empowers local residents through sustainable employment opportunities, setting a positive example for indigenous communities globally.