Note that behind-the-meter models are much less complex, because they’re more like having a residential battery. The battery is owned by an electricity customer, or in some cases a retailer i.e. YACK01 project, and connects with the network through a meter, like other customers. Behind-the-meter models also have challenges in managing the battery operation, supplying sufficient renewable energy to make it worthwhile, and making the economics stack up. But they don’t generally have the complexities in relation to land availability, tariffs, access to network information and partnerships that neighbourhood battery projects face. For this reason, proponents should also consider whether a behind-the-meter model is a better choice for their project, particularly if they’re having difficulties with some of the aspects above.
Depending on the site, say if it is a local business or a community group, that group will receive either direct benefits through bill reductions or through a PPA with the system owner.
The YACK01 Community Battery installed by Totally Renewable Yackandandah (TRY) is an example of the potential benefits of a BTM community battery model.