Renewable energy has been in discussion for years now, and for good reason. According to the UN, fossil fuels, such as coal, oil and gas, are the largest contributor to global climate change. They account for over 75% of global greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90% of all carbon dioxide emissions. The smallest town in Outback South Australia seems to be making the largest moves. Leading the way with its solar power project.
William Creek is the smallest town in Outback South Australia. It’s one of the most remote communities in Australia, 9 hours north of Adelaide. With a population of 50, the town is located on the grounds of Anna Creek Station, which is the biggest cattle station in the country. However, this tiny town still sees roughly twenty-six thousand travellers or tourists each year. The reason it’s making headlines is because it’s one of the few places on the planet to be fully powered by renewable energy. The town is entirely powered by solar energy.
Excess electricity is stored in batteries
This is thanks to a 200 kW photovoltaic (PV) array connected to a battery energy storage system that was installed in 2022 by My Energy. The 330 modules were installed on a large tract of land, and the panels generate enough energy to power the entire town. Excess electricity is stored in batteries, which can be used during low sunlight. The battery energy storage system is crucial to the project’s success, as it ensures that the town has a reliable energy source even when the sun isn’t shining.
Reducing energy costs for the Outback town
Historically, it has been challenging and expensive to provide electricity to William Creek, given its remoteness. The town’s previous diesel-generated power was priced at approximately $1.20 per kWh. Whereas now the self sufficient town purchases its electricity for $0.287 per kWh. It has reduced costs for the town and improved the local environment.
Juice Capital Commercial Sales Manager Dan Howard said “We are really proud of this project as it has bridged a gap between the outback and grid-connected towns. Communities like William Creek have been left to fend for themselves when it comes to delivering their own energy. To power a town like this using only diesel was expensive. They now have an option.”
