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Pole-top battery program

Location: Coldstream, Diamond Creek, Ferntree Gully, Heathmont, Knoxfield, Lysterfield, Smiths Beach, Traralgon, Wantirna, Wantirna South

Timeframe: August 2025 to December 2025

Overview

We’ve installed street batteries at 10 locations across our electricity distribution network.  

Street batteries are about the size of a bar fridge. They are installed on new or existing power poles in areas where homes export large amounts of rooftop solar energy to the electricity network. 

During the day, the batteries store excess solar energy generated by local homes. They then release this energy to nearby homes in the evening, when electricity use is generally higher. 

Each battery can power approximately 50 homes for up to two hours after sunset. 

How street batteries help local communities

Street batteries help communities make better use of locally generated solar energy.

By storing excess solar energy during the day and making it available when it is needed, the batteries can help:

  • reduce wasted solar energy
  • support more rooftop solar
  • improve power quality for nearby homes
  • support electric vehicles, electric hot water systems and other electric appliances
  • manage demand on the local electricity network
  • reduce or delay the need for some traditional network upgrades.

Where we installed the street batteries 

We installed the batteries on new or existing power poles using specially designed brackets. When selecting locations, we considered the amount of rooftop solar exported in the area, local electricity demand and potential impacts on nearby views.

The batteries are installed above eye level. 


Noise

Like many electrical appliances, street batteries make a low-level hum similar to a refrigerator.

The noise is within the limits set by Victoria’s environmental regulator. 


Project funding

This project was funded through the Victorian Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program, which supports community energy storage and Victoria’s transition to renewable energy.


More information

Download our Pole-top battery information flyer.

Please read our FAQs below. If you still have questions, contact us:

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