A $32,000 grant from AusNet is helping safeguard a critical health service in Yackandandah, with a new solar and battery system enabling the town’s pharmacy to stay open during power outages.
The Yackandandah Pharmacy received funding to purchase a 9.68 kW solar system and 40 kWh battery, which is now operational, through round three of AusNet’s Energy Resilience Community Fund.
AusNet Energy Resilience Community Fund Manager, Kim Sullivan, said the project delivers resilience when it matters most.
“The upgraded system provides reliable backup power during outages, keeping essential medications refrigerated and enabling the pharmacy to continue operating when power goes out, a vital safeguard for a small rural community,” Ms Sullivan said.
Pharmacy owners Emma Hutchings and Ros McIntyre said the installation brings confidence and peace of mind for both staff and customers.
“Pharmacies are a critical part of any small rural town. Knowing we can continue dispensing medications and caring for our community during power outages has given us a real confidence boost,” Ms Hutchings said.
The pharmacy joins a growing list of community facilities in Yackandandah now backed by solar and battery systems, including the CFA and SES buildings, the public hall, sports stadium and community centre. Other key sites, such as the community-owned petrol station, are supported by generator backup, while two community generators are available to power essential services during extended outages.
“AusNet’s energy resilience grants are making a tangible difference across Victoria, helping communities maintain power when it’s needed most, particularly during emergencies,” Ms Sullivan said.
The Yackandandah Pharmacy installation delivers another boost to the town’s energy resilience, an ideal prescription for a community already leading the way in clean, reliable, locally powered solutions.
Since its establishment in February 2024, AusNet’s $12 million Energy Resilience Community Fund has delivered $8.3 million in grants and donations to communities across AusNet’s electricity distribution network.