UPDATE: Yackandandah has officially launched its second community battery, Yack 02, today, marking a pivotal moment in the town’s renewable energy journey. This milestone event, which took place at Yackandandah Sports Park, underscores the community’s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy.
Community members, alongside representatives from Totally Renewable Yackandandah, Indigo Power, and local councils, gathered to celebrate the activation of Yack 02. Special thanks were extended to KDEC Solar and Electrical for their installation expertise and to the Victorian Government for its essential funding through the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program.
This new battery enhances the town’s energy resilience, building on the success of the first community battery, Yack 01, commissioned in July 2021. The success of Yack 01 has empowered the community to expand its energy storage capabilities, reinforcing Yackandandah’s position as a leader in Australia’s renewable energy landscape.
Yack 02 is not just a local asset; it plays a crucial role in the state’s effort to modernize energy infrastructure by deploying community-scale energy storage systems. These batteries store excess solar energy generated by local rooftops, which helps reduce grid congestion, lower energy costs, and provide a reliable source of clean energy during peak usage hours and outages.
Strategically located at Yackandandah Sports Park, Yack 02 is designed to deliver reliable power, especially in emergencies. This new battery captures surplus solar energy during the day, ensuring energy availability during peak evening hours. The enhanced capacity also stabilizes the broader energy network, reducing the need for costly grid upgrades.
Matthew Charles-Jones, president of Totally Renewable Yackandandah, expressed the community’s pride:
“This is a fantastic achievement for the Yackandandah community. The Yack 02 battery will play a vital role in our transition to 100% renewable energy, and it is a great example of what can be achieved when we work together.”
As Yackandandah continues to lead by example, its community batteries are setting a benchmark for other regions in Australia aiming for energy security and sustainability. With over 60% of homes in Yackandandah equipped with solar panels, these initiatives exemplify the transformative potential of localized energy solutions.
Looking forward, the town will leverage the combined power of Yack 01 and Yack 02 to create a robust energy ecosystem that maximizes its solar resources. The collaborative efforts of community organizations, local councils, and state government funding highlight the strength of community-driven renewable energy initiatives.
The successful launch of Yack 02 is a testament to Yackandandah’s innovative spirit and commitment to a sustainable future. As more communities look to transition to renewable energy, Yackandandah stands as a model of resilience and collaboration. With this latest development, the future looks bright for Yackandandah, paving the way for cleaner, more reliable energy for all.
