Next steps for microgrids in the Eurobodalla

SURF partners ANU, Zepben, Essential Energy and SHASA are undertaking a second round of community forums in Mystery Bay, Central Tilba, Tilba Tilba and Bodalla communities this weekend.

In May, they met with 90 members of the Congo, Broulee and South Durras communities. This round will provide an important opportunity for attendees to give feedback on the designs before the business cases and implementation plans are finalised.

SHASA’s SURF Project Manager Phil Shorten said “those attending [the first round of forums] were particularly interested in some of the high-level design options offered by ANU, and the capacity of existing rooftop solar to power communities during outages. There was also a lot of interest in understanding how the main grid operates, thanks to a presentation by Essential Energy”.

Local community energy group SHASA’s President Kathryn Maxwell also provided an update on related government grants - including the current battery programs and local projects underway - at the first Broulee and Congo community forums.

The purpose of the second round of forums is to provide information on the status of the SuRF Microgrid feasibility study. It will give participants a deeper understanding of Microgrids and a chance to comment on the different aspects of design that are important to them, before the business cases are finalised.

“These workshops will run for 2.5 hours to enable more discussion of microgrid options,” said Kathryn Maxwell.

All residents, businesses, including farmers from these communities are welcome to attend.

Community Forum Details:

Mystery Bay SATURDAY June 17, 11am to 1.30pm in the small Tilba Hall

The Tilbas SATURDAY June 17, 3pm to 5.30pm in the large Tilba Hall

Bodalla SUNDAY June 18, 10 to 12.30pm at the Bodalla Community Hall

Light refreshments will be available, and a written record of the discussion outcomes, including questions raised by attendees, will be provided to all attendees after the forums.