As Western Australia braces for one of the hottest summers on record, Plico's Virtual Power Plant (VPP) is poised to play a crucial role in supporting the grid. The VPP provides financial returns for Plico members, whose solar batteries are used to supplement energy supply in the grid.
During periods of high electricity demand, such as those experienced in a recent heat wave, the VPP helps prevent blackouts and maintain grid stability by boosting energy supply when its needed most.
Plico CEO Robbie Campbell says that owning a solar battery allows you to take full advantage of the emerging VPP market.
“VPPs deliver direct financial returns for participants by allowing them to profit from the stored energy in their batteries,” Mr Campbell said.
“This increases the value proposition of owning a solar battery, making it an even smarter investment for all Australians.
“VPPs are flexible, clean energy solutions that effectively manage fluctuations in grid supply and demand, reducing volatility and ensuring stability for the benefit of the entire community.”
High summer temperatures cause spikes in electricity demand, especially after 3pm when households switch on their air conditioners to battle the summer heat. This is the same time that solar generation begins to decline, creating an imbalance between energy supply and demand.
By providing a reliable, easily dispatchable and sustainable energy supply sourced from solar batteries distributed across the grid network, VPPs help prevent blackouts and more serious impacts like load shedding.
VPPs are vital to Australia's transition to a clean energy future. By enabling households to actively participate in the energy market and profit from their stored energy, VPPs not only support grid stability but also promote the adoption of household solar + battery systems.
You can find out more about WA’s largest network of solar batteries – the Plico Virtual Power Plant here. If you’d like to know how being part of a VPP with a cutting-edge solar + battery solution will benefit you, simply reach out to the switched-on people at Plico on 1300 175 426 and we’d be happy to help!
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