Hot Water Trial

Overview

Around 60 households in Rhyll with controlled load electric hot water systems will have their hot water heating schedules changed from night-time (11 pm to 7 am) to daytime. This change means hot water systems will operate during peak solar generation hours (9 am to 3 pm), making use of the region’s abundant renewable energy. Households will keep the existing supplementary boost period from 4 am to 6 am.

The trial

• supports power quality and network reliability
• helps stabilise voltages and reduces the need for network upgrades
• supports the local community’s energy goal of transitioning to 100% renewable energy
• provides data so we can model the impacts of scaling this trial across our network

What are the benefits?

• Maximises local solar, using excess local neighbourhood solar energy during the day
• Supports local solar systems, allowing more homes to install solar and export more electricity to the grid
• Reduces reliance on coal-fired electricity at night when the grid typically relies more on fossil fuel generation
• Potential savings for residents who may be able to negotiate better rates with their electricity retailer by demonstrating their daytime energy usage

Where can I get more information?

Public Information Sessions

Or email Totally Renewable Phillip Island at totallyrenewablephillipisland@gmail.com.