How retirees could help slash your next power bill
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Suppose you’ve ever groaned at your electricity bill (and let’s face it, most of us have). In that case, you might be surprised to learn that a group of South Australian retirees are quietly leading the way to bring those costs down, not just for themselves, but for thousands of households across the state.
And no, you won’t need to pack your bags for a retirement village to benefit.
These savvy seniors are helping to futureproof our energy supply, keep the lights on, and slip a little extra back into everyone’s pocket.
In August, two Living Choice retirement villages—Flagstaff Hill and Fullarton—became the latest sites in a national rollout of 'community batteries.'
These aren’t your average AA batteries tucked away in the kitchen drawer. We’re talking about large-scale, high-tech batteries that can store enough energy to power entire neighbourhoods during peak times.
Here’s how it works: during the day, when the sun is shining and rooftop solar panels are working overtime, these batteries soak up the excess energy that would otherwise go to waste.
Then, when everyone gets home and flicks on the kettle, the stored power is released back into the grid, helping to meet demand and keep prices down.
You might be thinking, 'That’s great for the folks in those villages, but what about the rest of us?'
Well, here’s the good news: these community batteries don’t just benefit the residents who live nearby.
According to Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, the batteries are designed to help everyone—renters, homeowners, and even those without solar panels.
'With one in three homes having rooftop solar, community batteries are the next stage in ensuring everyone gets the benefit of the energy transformation,' Mr Bowen explained.
'Community batteries store locally generated, excess solar energy for later use, putting downward pressure on household electricity costs and easing pressure on the grid.'
The federal government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), is funding the Community Batteries Project to install these batteries across the country.
The aim? Cheaper electricity, more rooftop solar, and lower emissions for all Australians.
In South Australia alone, dozens of community batteries are being switched on at various locations, adding up to 13 megawatts of new battery storage.
That’s enough to power up to 12,000 homes during peak demand—no small feat!
And it’s not just about saving money. The project is also about making our energy system more resilient.
Many of us remember the 2016 statewide blackout in South Australia, caused by a freak weather event that knocked out 23 transmission towers.
By storing energy locally, community batteries can help prevent such widespread outages in the future.
Another important aspect of the project is its focus on helping low-income and hardship-affected households.
Special discounted energy plans will be offered to those who need them most, ensuring that the benefits of this new technology are shared fairly.
The Living Choice villages aren’t just about batteries. They’re also embracing other sustainable practices, like fully operational solar systems for their 303 residents, electric vehicle charging stations, and even a Flagstaff Hill Golf Club stormwater reuse system.
As Megan Venz from Active Utilities (the battery owner) puts it: 'Our involvement demonstrates leadership in sustainable innovation, delivers tangible cost savings for residents, and enhances the overall benefits of retirement living.'
Even if you don’t live in a retirement village, the ripple effects of these community batteries could soon be felt in your own power bill.
As more batteries are installed and more excess solar energy is stored and shared, the whole grid becomes more efficient, and that means lower costs for everyone.
Have you noticed any changes in your power bills? Would you like to see community batteries in your neighbourhood? Or maybe you’ve got your own tips for saving on electricity? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below.
Read more: Will this proposal cut your energy bills dramatically? See the government's plans for solar batteries
And no, you won’t need to pack your bags for a retirement village to benefit.
These savvy seniors are helping to futureproof our energy supply, keep the lights on, and slip a little extra back into everyone’s pocket.
In August, two Living Choice retirement villages—Flagstaff Hill and Fullarton—became the latest sites in a national rollout of 'community batteries.'
These aren’t your average AA batteries tucked away in the kitchen drawer. We’re talking about large-scale, high-tech batteries that can store enough energy to power entire neighbourhoods during peak times.
Hundreds of South Australian retirees are helping lower power bills through a community battery program. Credit: sommart / iStock
Here’s how it works: during the day, when the sun is shining and rooftop solar panels are working overtime, these batteries soak up the excess energy that would otherwise go to waste.
Then, when everyone gets home and flicks on the kettle, the stored power is released back into the grid, helping to meet demand and keep prices down.
You might be thinking, 'That’s great for the folks in those villages, but what about the rest of us?'
Well, here’s the good news: these community batteries don’t just benefit the residents who live nearby.
According to Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, the batteries are designed to help everyone—renters, homeowners, and even those without solar panels.
'With one in three homes having rooftop solar, community batteries are the next stage in ensuring everyone gets the benefit of the energy transformation,' Mr Bowen explained.
'Community batteries store locally generated, excess solar energy for later use, putting downward pressure on household electricity costs and easing pressure on the grid.'
The federal government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA), is funding the Community Batteries Project to install these batteries across the country.
The aim? Cheaper electricity, more rooftop solar, and lower emissions for all Australians.
That’s enough to power up to 12,000 homes during peak demand—no small feat!
And it’s not just about saving money. The project is also about making our energy system more resilient.
Many of us remember the 2016 statewide blackout in South Australia, caused by a freak weather event that knocked out 23 transmission towers.
By storing energy locally, community batteries can help prevent such widespread outages in the future.
Another important aspect of the project is its focus on helping low-income and hardship-affected households.
The Living Choice villages aren’t just about batteries. They’re also embracing other sustainable practices, like fully operational solar systems for their 303 residents, electric vehicle charging stations, and even a Flagstaff Hill Golf Club stormwater reuse system.
As Megan Venz from Active Utilities (the battery owner) puts it: 'Our involvement demonstrates leadership in sustainable innovation, delivers tangible cost savings for residents, and enhances the overall benefits of retirement living.'
Even if you don’t live in a retirement village, the ripple effects of these community batteries could soon be felt in your own power bill.
As more batteries are installed and more excess solar energy is stored and shared, the whole grid becomes more efficient, and that means lower costs for everyone.
Read more: Will this proposal cut your energy bills dramatically? See the government's plans for solar batteries
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