Solar Citizens Australia has initiated the High-Rise Electrification Pilot Project in inner urban Sydney to explore the installation of solar panels on strata title unit blocks. The project covers six apartment buildings with more than 3,500 residents, aiming to address the challenge of electrifying high-rise structures. As the number of Australians residing in strata-titled properties continues to increase, this initiative holds immense potential for the future.
The Complexities of Electrifying a Village
The High-Rise Electrification Project involves six buildings, each with its own unique characteristics and separate body corporate. Some of these buildings have an embedded network, while others do not, making the process of electrification complex. The successful completion of this project will serve as a model for transforming other high-rise blocks, setting a precedent for sustainable energy upgrades in the future.
Addressing the Need for Electric Vehicle Charging
In addition to solar panel installation, the project also aims to tackle the rising demand for electric vehicle charging in dense inner-city areas. With 63 battery electric vehicles already registered at the Discovery Point postcode in Sydney, the need for efficient charging infrastructure is becoming increasingly crucial.
Funding and Community Support
Solar Citizens is actively seeking further funding for the High-Rise Electrification Pilot Project to ensure its success. The organization is also looking for partners that can provide technical knowledge and advice to residents throughout the electrification process. By involving the community, the media, and decision-makers, Solar Citizens aims to influence all levels of government with hard data and experience, highlighting the environmental and cost-of-living benefits of clean technology.
An “Electrification Library” and Community Engagement
As part of the project, Solar Citizens plans to create an “Electrification Library” where residents can borrow electrical appliances and devices, gaining hands-on experience with household electrification. By encouraging the adoption of electric appliances and organizing community sessions with expert advice and case studies, Solar Citizens aims to engage and empower residents to become local leaders in sustainable energy practices.
A Blueprint for Strata Associations
Ultimately, the goal of the pilot project in Wolli Creek is to provide a blueprint for strata associations across the country, guiding them in implementing sustainable energy upgrades specific to their needs. However, challenges such as managing renter access to solar and resolving power, space, and storage issues in the buildings will need to be addressed along the way.
Government Funding and the Future Outlook
The Australian federal government is providing funding to states for electrification projects, with each state utilizing the funds differently. While progress is being made in retrofitting existing blocks for solar and electric vehicle charging, the costly nature of these upgrades persists. To achieve the Australian Energy Market Operator’s goal of doubling rooftop solar in the next decade, the support and collaboration of all stakeholders are essential. Additionally, the battle to install charging infrastructure for electric vehicles in apartment buildings continues.
As wholesale electricity prices decrease and renewables contribute more power to the grid, Solar Citizens remains hopeful that these cost savings will benefit the general public. With millions of Australians living in apartment buildings and strata, initiatives like the High-Rise Electrification Pilot Project can offer relief from high electricity bills and combat heat during hot summers.
