DR Helen Haines MP says household batteries will play a pivotal role in reshaping Australia’s energy future—cutting bills, easing grid demand, and unlocking the full potential of rooftop solar. The re-elected Independent Federal Member for Indi said her home batteries policy—adopted by the Labor Government during the election—will give more families the ability to store solar energy and use it when it's needed most. "The scheme starts on 1 July but batteries can be purchased and installed now and be eligible for the subsidy in the new financial year,” Dr Haines said. "I spent two years promoting this policy to the government, knowing the potential for households to substantially reduce their energy bills if we could increase their access to home batteries. "I was thrilled when the federal government committed to my policy. "Home batteries will deliver immediate bill relief for households and community groups, and over time we will see this benefit extend to all consumers by reducing overall pressure on the grid." Government modelling shows households could save $1100 every year on their power bill by adding a home battery to their solar energy system. The Smart Energy Council has predicted $1.3 billion would be saved on wholesale power prices each year if one million batteries were installed in Australia, delivering benefit to all consumers. Dr Haines said in addition to her home battery policy, she would extend her focus to micro-grids and community energy to help towns that experience repeat power outages in extreme weather and at edge-of-grid.
