Council secures funding for battery storage and solar at Bonnie Doon
Published on 04 April 2025
Council has been successful in securing grant funding for a battery storage and solar PV installation at the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve as part of round two of the Victorian Government’s $42 million 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program.
The project at Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve is being funded as part of a joint initiative led by the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance in partnership with 10 councils across regional Victoria, with support from the Goulburn Murray Climate Alliance.
Climate change and extreme weather events pose an increasing risk to electricity infrastructure in Mansfield Shire. Mansfield Shire has experienced multiple storm and fire events in recent years, resulting in extended grid outages. With extreme weather events in the region becoming more frequent, there is a growing need for the establishment of an energy resilient hub in Mansfield Shire.
Following detailed feasibility and business case work undertaken in partnership with the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance in 2024, Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve was identified by Council as a suitable location for an energy resilience hub for the town and surrounding areas.
An energy backup system comprising of a 25kw/50kWh battery and additional 8kW solar PV system installed at the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve will future-proof this site as an energy resilient hub for residents of Bonnie Doon and surrounding areas to access in the event of an extended grid outage.
The proposed system is expected to provide up to 3 days backup power for critical power and lighting circuits from the battery alone, with capacity to charge from solar in island-mode to extended backup power duration if required.
Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said Council was proud to play a leadership role in facilitating local energy solutions with long-term benefits.
“The battery and solar installation at Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve means people will be able to access a powered relief site during emergencies,” he said.
“When we partner with other organisations and advocate for federal funding, we can get better bang for ratepayers’ buck. We’ve been able to get a $163,000 battery and solar installation for only $8,000 of cost to Council.
“We’re grateful to the Victorian Government, the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance and the 10 partnering councils for their support.
“The upgrades will make the Bonnie Doon Recreation Reserve a more energy-efficient, resilient, and sustainable space for the community,” said Cr Rabie.