ANU experts to power path to all-electric ACT
ANU Press Release, 4 December, 2023
A map to guide the Australian Capital Territory (ACT)’s transition to an all-electric economy will be developed by experts at The Australian National University (ANU).
Energy experts meet to forge pathway for neighbourhood batteries
News story, 4 December, 2023
Leaders in the field of renewable energy travelled from across Australia to the Australian National University (ANU) to share the latest developments in neighbourhood battery research and progress updates on government-funded trials at the second ANU Future of Neighbourhood Batteries Conference, hosted by the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program (BSGIP).
Maximising insights from neighbourhood battery projects
Energy Magazine, 2 November, 2023
A team of researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program has been working to develop a framework for neighbourhood batteries which will help government organisations in the evaluation of government-funded neighbourhood battery projects and programs.
Net zero by 2050? Too late. Australia must aim for 2035
The Conversation, 21 September, 2023
This year’s heightened drumbeat of extreme weather shows us how little time we actually have to slash emissions writes Mark Howden, Frank Jotzo, Ken Baldwin, Kylie Catchpole, Kylie Walker and Lachlan Blackhall.
BSGIP provides submission to ACT Government’s Integrated Energy Plan
BSGIP news story, 18 September, 2023
BSGIP’s submission recognises the increasingly decentralised nature of the energy landscape with consumer energy resources such as solar panels, home batteries, and electric vehicles playing an increasing role in the energy transition.
Distrust of the energy industry could slow the rollout of all-electric households
Switched On podcast & accompanying news article, 12 September, 2023
Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, one of Australia’s leading energy social scientists, discusses what she has learnt from her countless interviews with Australians discussing the energy transition and new energy technologies.
5 Rs of reducing carbon emissions from university air travel
Linked In blog post, 8 September, 2023
When it comes to reducing carbon emissions from university air travel, the 5 Rs can help us – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle, writes Associate Professor Kim Blackmore.
Well this is awkward: confronting carbon emissions in academic air travel
Linked In blog post, 28 August, 2023
Blog post by Associate Professor Kim Blackmore. Kim is working on the Australian National University’s Below Zero initiative, which aims to transition the University from being a source of greenhouse gas emissions to a carbon sink.
Are all-renewable microgrids the future for regional Australia facing climate disasters?
ABC Science, 22 August, 2023
As Australia prepares for more extreme weather events, what role might microgrids play in building resilience in our energy system? Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
Solar hours heating redefining regional battery storage requirements
Energy magazine, 4 August, 2023
A recent collaboration involving BSGIP and a regional Victorian town has had surprising and positive results in proving that moving electric hot water heating from nighttime to during solar hours has the potential to massively reduce required battery storage.
Buying time for the Great Barrier Reef
BSGIP news story, 6 July, 2023
Imagine shading the waters of the Great Barrier Reef by enhancing the cloud cover about it? Sounds like science fiction right? BSGIP student Dan Virah-Sawmy is part of a world first implementation project aiming to demonstrate just that.
BSGIP marks 5th anniversary with Impact Report
BSGIP news story, 28 June, 2023
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program celebrated a milestone anniversary in 2023 with the Program officially operational for five years. To mark the occasion, BSGIP has released a 5 Year Impact Report detailing the Program’s significant achievements.
Community batteries are popular – but we have to make sure they actually help share power
The Conversation, 17 May, 2023
In this opinion piece a team of experts from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program bring the discussion back to the fundamental ‘why’. Why use this form of mid-scale storage?
‘From brains to batteries’ – Associate Professor Marnie Shaw
News story, 15 May, 2023
Profile on BSGIP research leader, Marnie Shaw.
World-first flexible export limits are coming to rooftop solar. Here’s how they work
ABC Science online, 14 March, 2023
Featuring expert commentary on flexible export limits, also known as dynamic operating envelopes, by BSGIP’s Andrew Fraser.
Australian renewable energy struggles to hit grid with one solar farm wasting half its yearly output
The Guardian, 24 February 2023
Report on curtailment in the grid featuring expert commentary by BSGIP’s Jack Sorensen.
Explainer: What is congestion and curtailment in the National Electricity Market (NEM)?
BSGIP Explainer, 20 February 2023
This explainer seeks to answer some common questions around congestion and curtailment.
Curtailment due to congestion: what’s the state of play?
BSGIP news story, 20 February 2023
Report on the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s submission to the Energy Security Board’s Transmission Access Reform Directions paper.
Electric buses put to the test under Australian conditions
BSGIP news story, 14 February, 2023
Researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program have developed a new tool, using data collected from Australia’s largest electric bus pilot project. This new tool can assist other bus fleets looking to make the switch to electric.
The future of neighbourhood batteries is now
BSGIP news story, 13 February, 2023
Report on the Future of Neighbourhood Batteries in Australia conference held at ANU in November 2022.
News story, 10 February, 2023
Report on a visit by a team of Indonesian engineers to Australian battery laboratories, including BSGIP’s Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory.
Why community batteries could be the next step in the solar power revolution
ABC online, 19 January, 2023
This year the federal government will begin rolling out 400 community, or neighbourhood, batteries. With expert commentary by Prof Lachlan Blackhall.
New research supports rapid decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system
BSGIP news story, 16 January, 2023
Research by the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program shines a light on the complex world of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and shows how dynamic carbon costs could play a critical role in improving the trade-off between emissions and costs.
Cosmos article, 9 December, 2022
Report on vanadium flow batteries, a 40 year-old Australian invention that is receiving renewed focus as our energy grids transition, with expert commentary by A/Prof Alexey Glushenkov.
Children’s book helps power clean energy transition
ANU news story, 7 November, 2022
Renewable energy researcher at The Australian National University (ANU) and 2022 Tall Poppy recipient Dr Bjorn Sturmberg can now add published author to his resume with the launch of his new book, Amy’s Balancing Act, a children’s fable about the transition to clean energy.
BSGIP researcher recognised for leadership in clean energy
BSGIP news story, 27 October, 2022
Dr Marnie Shaw, Research Fellow with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program (BSGIP), has been recognised for her leadership in clean energy, receiving a Chloe Munro Scholarship for Transformational Leadership from the Clean Energy Council.
Accolades for BSGIP at national engineering awards ceremony
BSGIP news story, 13 October, 2022
The Program was recognised at the prestigious Engineers Australia national awards ceremony in Sydney last week receiving two honours, an individual award and a project finalist award.
Young ANU scientist receives Tall Poppy honour
ANU News story, 10 October, 2022
Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Research Leader with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, has been honoured for excellence in research, and for the communication of that research beyond academia.
‘DEIP Dive’ 2022 explores a distributed energy future
ARENA News story, 29 September, 2022
ARENA, Energy Networks Australia and the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program welcomed to the Australian National University close to 150 guests from industry, academia & government last month to discuss the integration of electric vehicles and other distributed energy resources. Summary Report.
Battery group student honoured with Global Undergraduate Award win
BSGIP News story, 13 September, 2022
Oliver Hervir was recognised by the Global Undergraduate Awards, an international student competition in Dublin, Ireland, for his research into dual-carbon batteries.
The Conversation, 2 September, 2022
This week, the Australian Energy Market Operator warned gaps in electricity supply are likely within three years writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
One skill shortage more than any is holding back Australia in the race to net zero
Renew Economy, 31 August, 2022
The race to create zero carbon economies is heating up dramatically in 2022. This is a race to not only secure a safe climate but also to secure prosperity in this century’s global economy writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
Evolve takes out Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award
News story, 19 August, 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program and partner Zepben won this year’s Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award.
Who will drive vehicle-to-grid?
Utility magazine, 2 August, 2022
Opinion piece written by Bjorn Sturmberg, Kathryn Lucas-Healey and Laura Jones.
Australians are installing rooftop solar like never before. Who is burdened with taking care of it?
The Conversation article, 15 July, 2022
Our new research has found rooftop solar maintenance, as with other forms of housework, has the potential to become an equity issue. And the burden of this unrecognised work is set to worsen as the energy transition accelerates.
Energy crisis – report snapshot shows the state of renewables in Australia
ATSE briefing, 11 July, 2022
Lachlan Blackhall was one of five energy experts to provide a briefing on the state-of-play of renewables recently. The briefing launched a new short report from the Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering: Here and now – the state of low emissions technology in Australia.
Electric vehicles pass the remote road test
ANU press release, 8 July, 2022
Electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia, a new study from The Australian National University (ANU) has shown.
BSGIP news story, 27 June 2022
Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov and colleagues from the Research School of Earth Sciences received $180,000 from the ANU College of Science Research Strategic Programs funding for 2022 for a project looking at critical minerals at high pressures – novel compounds for storage batteries.
The clean energy revolution is more than just a techno-fix
The Conversation article, 24 June 2022
The Black Summer bushfires devastated parts of the Eurobodalla region in New South Wales. Then earlier this year, the area was hit by floods. As climate change threatens to bring more severe and frequent extreme weather events, how can we help future-proof such communities?
Program extends research into agricultural industry with funding win
BSGIP news story, 23 June 2022
Lachlan Blackhall recently led a team that was awarded funding in the latest round of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Strategic Investment Program for a project titled ‘Multi Energy System Modelling for the Agricultural Sector’.
NSW South Coast communities selected for microgrid studies
BSGIP news story, 16 June 2022
A federally funded project examining the use of microgrids to bolster local energy resilience has selected eight sites across the Eurobodalla for further studies.
Australia – Germany collaboration evaluates dual-ion batteries with phosphorus negative electrodes
BSGIP news story, 15 June 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s battery materials team from the ANU Research School of Chemistry joined forces with the Munster Electrochemical Energy Technology (MEET) Centre to assess a new variety of dual-ion battery that utilises negative electrode materials containing black phosphorus.
BSGIP news story, 6 June 2022
The launch of Melbourne’s first inner-urban community battery on Sunday 5 June is welcome news, and not just for the local Fitzroy North residents.
Renew Economy, 25 May 2022
A new paradigm is needed in the energy sector, one that encapsulates people’s hopes and ideals. Neighbourhood batteries could help with this, but the positive benefits are not guaranteed. Opinion article written by Hedda Ransan-Cooper, Marnie Shaw, Wendy Russell and Louise Bardwell.
The Conversation, 11 May 2022
18 transport and energy experts have created an independent, science-based summary to support the decarbonisation of Australia’s transport sector.
Australia needs to get motoring on clean transport strategy
ANU media release, 11 May 2022
Co-author of the Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy (FACTS), launched today, Dr Bjorn Sturmberg says the lack of clear direction is slowing our adoption of clean technologies, such as electric cars and buses.
Stockpiling solar power in suburban batteries
ARENA Rewired podcast, 28 April 2022
Interview with Dr Marnie Shaw about a new wave of community energy projects.
Optimism, Climate Change and Start-ups
Talking Tech Policy podcast, 9 May 2022
Interview with Professor Lachlan Blackhall on what innovation really is and the value of ideas – drawing from Lachlan’s exquisite blog “Death of a Startup.”
Powerline fires wreak havoc but a renewable microgrid alternative is rolling out
ABC online, 20 April 2022
After a spate of bushfires, a Western Australian regional electrical network is replacing overhead lines in fire prone regions with off-grid solar and battery systems. Featuring commentary by Dr Elizabeth Ratnam.
A community battery ‘like a corner store’: Is this the future of home energy storage
ABC online, 5 April 2022
Report on community, or neighbourhood batteries featuring expert commentary by Drs Marnie Shaw and Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
First electric vehicle chargers now on campus
22 March 2022
The Acton campus is now home to the University’s first electric vehicle (EV) chargers. One Type 2 EV charger and one bi-directional EV charger have been installed in the Geology Close carpark, in front of the Ian Ross building on North Road. The Type 2 charger is available to the ANU community, free of charge when not in use for research purposes.
Student profile: Lizbeth Dimonti
11 March 2022
Meet Lizbeth Dimonti, the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s newest Phd candidate. Lizbeth’s research will focus on the visualisation & characterisation of batteries via cutting-edge electron microscopy.
‘Cutting through the greenwash’: Australian energy retailers ranked on climate action
The Guardian, 8 February 2022
Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program.
Excuse me, can I use your car to stabilise and power the grid?
Clean Technica, 24 January 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
The unknown unknowns of vehicle-to-grid tech
Clean Technica, 24 January, 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
V2G driving grid changes
PV Magazine, 15 January, 2022
The uptake of EVs in the years ahead will add up to staggering battery capacity, mostly sitting idle on driveways. Featuring commentary by Laura Jones, Senior Analyst at BSGIP
Why it’s vital to put people at the heart of the energy transition
Renew Economy, 14 December, 2021
Thought leadership piece written by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at BSGIP.
Neighbourhood batteries in Australia
PV Tech Power, November, 2021
Written for an international audience, this article delves into the state-of-play of neighbourhood batteries in Australia.
Australia’s R&D spend too low to fund future climate change technology breakthroughs: experts
The Canberra Times, 19 November, 2021
Expert commentary on the lack of R&D funding in Australia by Prof Andrew Blakers, Prof Frank Jotzo, Prof Lachlan Blackhall (pictured in the Distributed Energy Resources Lab at ANU) and Prof Mark Howden.
A spark for the future
Opinion piece by Prof Lachlan Blackhall, Daily Telegraph, 5 November, 2021
The world is watching and waiting in anticipation as global leaders gather in Glasgow for COP26, in the hope that international governments will agree actionable commitments that start to achieve rapid and sustained decarbonisation over the decades ahead.
The rubber hits the road for Australia’s largest electric bus fleet project
BSGIP news story, 21 October, 2021
A new pilot project set to drive down emissions in public transport and heavy transport has today been announced. The $36 million project will consist of Australia’s largest electric bus fleet (40 buses), charging infrastructure and a retrofitted bus depot in Leichhardt, Sydney.
Local network pricing and community storage a powerful combo
Ecogeneration article featuring by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, 15 October, 2021
If networks could charge for localised use of their service, all customers in areas with high PV and community-scale batteries would pay lower bills … with no cost to the network, research shows.
Many rooftop solar investors are feeling ripped off. Could battery subsidies solve the problem?
ABC online article featuring expert commentary by Professor Lachlan Blackhall, 30 September, 2021
Some solar owners are being told they can’t export power to the grid or are being hit with solar export limits due to fears the network can’t cope, meaning their excess clean energy is essentially being wasted.
Research exchange enhances battery technology development in Samoa
BSGIP news story, 2 November, 2023
BSGIP hosted two research scientists from Samoa recently to help build capacity and strengthen the island nation’s ability to meet climate and energy challenges. The researchers spent valuable time in BSGIP’s state-of-the-art Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory (Battery Lab) with Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov.
Maximising insights from neighbourhood battery projects
Energy Magazine, 2 November, 2023
A team of researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program has been working to develop a framework for neighbourhood batteries which will help government organisations in the evaluation of government-funded neighbourhood battery projects and programs.
Net zero by 2050? Too late. Australia must aim for 2035
The Conversation, 21 September, 2023
This year’s heightened drumbeat of extreme weather shows us how little time we actually have to slash emissions writes Mark Howden, Frank Jotzo, Ken Baldwin, Kylie Catchpole, Kylie Walker and Lachlan Blackhall.
BSGIP provides submission to ACT Government’s Integrated Energy Plan
BSGIP news story, 18 September, 2023
BSGIP’s submission recognises the increasingly decentralised nature of the energy landscape with consumer energy resources such as solar panels, home batteries, and electric vehicles playing an increasing role in the energy transition.
Distrust of the energy industry could slow the rollout of all-electric households
Switched On podcast & accompanying news article, 12 September, 2023
Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, one of Australia’s leading energy social scientists, discusses what she has learnt from her countless interviews with Australians discussing the energy transition and new energy technologies.
5 Rs of reducing carbon emissions from university air travel
Linked In blog post, 8 September, 2023
When it comes to reducing carbon emissions from university air travel, the 5 Rs can help us – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle, writes Associate Professor Kim Blackmore.
Well this is awkward: confronting carbon emissions in academic air travel
Linked In blog post, 28 August, 2023
Blog post by Associate Professor Kim Blackmore. Kim is working on the Australian National University’s Below Zero initiative, which aims to transition the University from being a source of greenhouse gas emissions to a carbon sink.
Are all-renewable microgrids the future for regional Australia facing climate disasters?
ABC Science, 22 August, 2023
As Australia prepares for more extreme weather events, what role might microgrids play in building resilience in our energy system? Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
Solar hours heating redefining regional battery storage requirements
Energy magazine, 4 August, 2023
A recent collaboration involving BSGIP and a regional Victorian town has had surprising and positive results in proving that moving electric hot water heating from nighttime to during solar hours has the potential to massively reduce required battery storage.
Buying time for the Great Barrier Reef
BSGIP news story, 6 July, 2023
Imagine shading the waters of the Great Barrier Reef by enhancing the cloud cover about it? Sounds like science fiction right? BSGIP student Dan Virah-Sawmy is part of a world first implementation project aiming to demonstrate just that.
BSGIP marks 5th anniversary with Impact Report
BSGIP news story, 28 June, 2023
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program celebrated a milestone anniversary in 2023 with the Program officially operational for five years. To mark the occasion, BSGIP has released a 5 Year Impact Report detailing the Program’s significant achievements.
Community batteries are popular – but we have to make sure they actually help share power
The Conversation, 17 May, 2023
In this opinion piece a team of experts from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program bring the discussion back to the fundamental ‘why’. Why use this form of mid-scale storage?
‘From brains to batteries’ – Associate Professor Marnie Shaw
News story, 15 May, 2023
Profile on BSGIP research leader, Marnie Shaw.
World-first flexible export limits are coming to rooftop solar. Here’s how they work
ABC Science online, 14 March, 2023
Featuring expert commentary on flexible export limits, also known as dynamic operating envelopes, by BSGIP’s Andrew Fraser.
Australian renewable energy struggles to hit grid with one solar farm wasting half its yearly output
The Guardian, 24 February 2023
Report on curtailment in the grid featuring expert commentary by BSGIP’s Jack Sorensen.
Explainer: What is congestion and curtailment in the National Electricity Market (NEM)?
BSGIP Explainer, 20 February 2023
This explainer seeks to answer some common questions around congestion and curtailment.
Curtailment due to congestion: what’s the state of play?
BSGIP news story, 20 February 2023
Report on the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s submission to the Energy Security Board’s Transmission Access Reform Directions paper.
Electric buses put to the test under Australian conditions
BSGIP news story, 14 February, 2023
Researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program have developed a new tool, using data collected from Australia’s largest electric bus pilot project. This new tool can assist other bus fleets looking to make the switch to electric.
The future of neighbourhood batteries is now
BSGIP news story, 13 February, 2023
Report on the Future of Neighbourhood Batteries in Australia conference held at ANU in November 2022.
News story, 10 February, 2023
Report on a visit by a team of Indonesian engineers to Australian battery laboratories, including BSGIP’s Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory.
Why community batteries could be the next step in the solar power revolution
ABC online, 19 January, 2023
This year the federal government will begin rolling out 400 community, or neighbourhood, batteries. With expert commentary by Prof Lachlan Blackhall.
New research supports rapid decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system
BSGIP news story, 16 January, 2023
Research by the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program shines a light on the complex world of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and shows how dynamic carbon costs could play a critical role in improving the trade-off between emissions and costs.
Cosmos article, 9 December, 2022
Report on vanadium flow batteries, a 40 year-old Australian invention that is receiving renewed focus as our energy grids transition, with expert commentary by A/Prof Alexey Glushenkov.
Children’s book helps power clean energy transition
ANU news story, 7 November, 2022
Renewable energy researcher at The Australian National University (ANU) and 2022 Tall Poppy recipient Dr Bjorn Sturmberg can now add published author to his resume with the launch of his new book, Amy’s Balancing Act, a children’s fable about the transition to clean energy.
BSGIP researcher recognised for leadership in clean energy
BSGIP news story, 27 October, 2022
Dr Marnie Shaw, Research Fellow with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program (BSGIP), has been recognised for her leadership in clean energy, receiving a Chloe Munro Scholarship for Transformational Leadership from the Clean Energy Council.
Accolades for BSGIP at national engineering awards ceremony
BSGIP news story, 13 October, 2022
The Program was recognised at the prestigious Engineers Australia national awards ceremony in Sydney last week receiving two honours, an individual award and a project finalist award.
Young ANU scientist receives Tall Poppy honour
ANU News story, 10 October, 2022
Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Research Leader with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, has been honoured for excellence in research, and for the communication of that research beyond academia.
‘DEIP Dive’ 2022 explores a distributed energy future
ARENA News story, 29 September, 2022
ARENA, Energy Networks Australia and the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program welcomed to the Australian National University close to 150 guests from industry, academia & government last month to discuss the integration of electric vehicles and other distributed energy resources. Summary Report.
Battery group student honoured with Global Undergraduate Award win
BSGIP News story, 13 September, 2022
Oliver Hervir was recognised by the Global Undergraduate Awards, an international student competition in Dublin, Ireland, for his research into dual-carbon batteries.
The Conversation, 2 September, 2022
This week, the Australian Energy Market Operator warned gaps in electricity supply are likely within three years writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
One skill shortage more than any is holding back Australia in the race to net zero
Renew Economy, 31 August, 2022
The race to create zero carbon economies is heating up dramatically in 2022. This is a race to not only secure a safe climate but also to secure prosperity in this century’s global economy writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
Evolve takes out Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award
News story, 19 August, 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program and partner Zepben won this year’s Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award.
Who will drive vehicle-to-grid?
Utility magazine, 2 August, 2022
Opinion piece written by Bjorn Sturmberg, Kathryn Lucas-Healey and Laura Jones.
Australians are installing rooftop solar like never before. Who is burdened with taking care of it?
The Conversation article, 15 July, 2022
Our new research has found rooftop solar maintenance, as with other forms of housework, has the potential to become an equity issue. And the burden of this unrecognised work is set to worsen as the energy transition accelerates.
Energy crisis – report snapshot shows the state of renewables in Australia
ATSE briefing, 11 July, 2022
Lachlan Blackhall was one of five energy experts to provide a briefing on the state-of-play of renewables recently. The briefing launched a new short report from the Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering: Here and now – the state of low emissions technology in Australia.
Electric vehicles pass the remote road test
ANU press release, 8 July, 2022
Electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia, a new study from The Australian National University (ANU) has shown.
BSGIP news story, 27 June 2022
Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov and colleagues from the Research School of Earth Sciences received $180,000 from the ANU College of Science Research Strategic Programs funding for 2022 for a project looking at critical minerals at high pressures – novel compounds for storage batteries.
The clean energy revolution is more than just a techno-fix
The Conversation article, 24 June 2022
The Black Summer bushfires devastated parts of the Eurobodalla region in New South Wales. Then earlier this year, the area was hit by floods. As climate change threatens to bring more severe and frequent extreme weather events, how can we help future-proof such communities?
Program extends research into agricultural industry with funding win
BSGIP news story, 23 June 2022
Lachlan Blackhall recently led a team that was awarded funding in the latest round of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Strategic Investment Program for a project titled ‘Multi Energy System Modelling for the Agricultural Sector’.
NSW South Coast communities selected for microgrid studies
BSGIP news story, 16 June 2022
A federally funded project examining the use of microgrids to bolster local energy resilience has selected eight sites across the Eurobodalla for further studies.
Australia – Germany collaboration evaluates dual-ion batteries with phosphorus negative electrodes
BSGIP news story, 15 June 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s battery materials team from the ANU Research School of Chemistry joined forces with the Munster Electrochemical Energy Technology (MEET) Centre to assess a new variety of dual-ion battery that utilises negative electrode materials containing black phosphorus.
BSGIP news story, 6 June 2022
The launch of Melbourne’s first inner-urban community battery on Sunday 5 June is welcome news, and not just for the local Fitzroy North residents.
Renew Economy, 25 May 2022
A new paradigm is needed in the energy sector, one that encapsulates people’s hopes and ideals. Neighbourhood batteries could help with this, but the positive benefits are not guaranteed. Opinion article written by Hedda Ransan-Cooper, Marnie Shaw, Wendy Russell and Louise Bardwell.
The Conversation, 11 May 2022
18 transport and energy experts have created an independent, science-based summary to support the decarbonisation of Australia’s transport sector.
Australia needs to get motoring on clean transport strategy
ANU media release, 11 May 2022
Co-author of the Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy (FACTS), launched today, Dr Bjorn Sturmberg says the lack of clear direction is slowing our adoption of clean technologies, such as electric cars and buses.
Stockpiling solar power in suburban batteries
ARENA Rewired podcast, 28 April 2022
Interview with Dr Marnie Shaw about a new wave of community energy projects.
Optimism, Climate Change and Start-ups
Talking Tech Policy podcast, 9 May 2022
Interview with Professor Lachlan Blackhall on what innovation really is and the value of ideas – drawing from Lachlan’s exquisite blog “Death of a Startup.”
Powerline fires wreak havoc but a renewable microgrid alternative is rolling out
ABC online, 20 April 2022
After a spate of bushfires, a Western Australian regional electrical network is replacing overhead lines in fire prone regions with off-grid solar and battery systems. Featuring commentary by Dr Elizabeth Ratnam.
A community battery ‘like a corner store’: Is this the future of home energy storage
ABC online, 5 April 2022
Report on community, or neighbourhood batteries featuring expert commentary by Drs Marnie Shaw and Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
First electric vehicle chargers now on campus
22 March 2022
The Acton campus is now home to the University’s first electric vehicle (EV) chargers. One Type 2 EV charger and one bi-directional EV charger have been installed in the Geology Close carpark, in front of the Ian Ross building on North Road. The Type 2 charger is available to the ANU community, free of charge when not in use for research purposes.
Student profile: Lizbeth Dimonti
11 March 2022
Meet Lizbeth Dimonti, the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s newest Phd candidate. Lizbeth’s research will focus on the visualisation & characterisation of batteries via cutting-edge electron microscopy.
‘Cutting through the greenwash’: Australian energy retailers ranked on climate action
The Guardian, 8 February 2022
Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program.
Excuse me, can I use your car to stabilise and power the grid?
Clean Technica, 24 January 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
The unknown unknowns of vehicle-to-grid tech
Clean Technica, 24 January, 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
V2G driving grid changes
PV Magazine, 15 January, 2022
The uptake of EVs in the years ahead will add up to staggering battery capacity, mostly sitting idle on driveways. Featuring commentary by Laura Jones, Senior Analyst at BSGIP
Why it’s vital to put people at the heart of the energy transition
Renew Economy, 14 December, 2021
Thought leadership piece written by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at BSGIP.
Neighbourhood batteries in Australia
PV Tech Power, November, 2021
Written for an international audience, this article delves into the state-of-play of neighbourhood batteries in Australia.
Australia’s R&D spend too low to fund future climate change technology breakthroughs: experts
The Canberra Times, 19 November, 2021
Expert commentary on the lack of R&D funding in Australia by Prof Andrew Blakers, Prof Frank Jotzo, Prof Lachlan Blackhall (pictured in the Distributed Energy Resources Lab at ANU) and Prof Mark Howden.
A spark for the future
Opinion piece by Prof Lachlan Blackhall, Daily Telegraph, 5 November, 2021
The world is watching and waiting in anticipation as global leaders gather in Glasgow for COP26, in the hope that international governments will agree actionable commitments that start to achieve rapid and sustained decarbonisation over the decades ahead.
The rubber hits the road for Australia’s largest electric bus fleet project
BSGIP news story, 21 October, 2021
A new pilot project set to drive down emissions in public transport and heavy transport has today been announced. The $36 million project will consist of Australia’s largest electric bus fleet (40 buses), charging infrastructure and a retrofitted bus depot in Leichhardt, Sydney.
Local network pricing and community storage a powerful combo
Ecogeneration article featuring by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, 15 October, 2021
If networks could charge for localised use of their service, all customers in areas with high PV and community-scale batteries would pay lower bills … with no cost to the network, research shows.
Many rooftop solar investors are feeling ripped off. Could battery subsidies solve the problem?
ABC online article featuring expert commentary by Professor Lachlan Blackhall, 30 September, 2021
Some solar owners are being told they can’t export power to the grid or are being hit with solar export limits due to fears the network can’t cope, meaning their excess clean energy is essentially being wasted.
Maximising insights from neighbourhood battery projects
Energy Magazine, 2 November, 2023
A team of researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program has been working to develop a framework for neighbourhood batteries which will help government organisations in the evaluation of government-funded neighbourhood battery projects and programs.
Net zero by 2050? Too late. Australia must aim for 2035
The Conversation, 21 September, 2023
This year’s heightened drumbeat of extreme weather shows us how little time we actually have to slash emissions writes Mark Howden, Frank Jotzo, Ken Baldwin, Kylie Catchpole, Kylie Walker and Lachlan Blackhall.
BSGIP provides submission to ACT Government’s Integrated Energy Plan
BSGIP news story, 18 September, 2023
BSGIP’s submission recognises the increasingly decentralised nature of the energy landscape with consumer energy resources such as solar panels, home batteries, and electric vehicles playing an increasing role in the energy transition.
Distrust of the energy industry could slow the rollout of all-electric households
Switched On podcast & accompanying news article, 12 September, 2023
Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, one of Australia’s leading energy social scientists, discusses what she has learnt from her countless interviews with Australians discussing the energy transition and new energy technologies.
5 Rs of reducing carbon emissions from university air travel
Linked In blog post, 8 September, 2023
When it comes to reducing carbon emissions from university air travel, the 5 Rs can help us – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle, writes Associate Professor Kim Blackmore.
Well this is awkward: confronting carbon emissions in academic air travel
Linked In blog post, 28 August, 2023
Blog post by Associate Professor Kim Blackmore. Kim is working on the Australian National University’s Below Zero initiative, which aims to transition the University from being a source of greenhouse gas emissions to a carbon sink.
Are all-renewable microgrids the future for regional Australia facing climate disasters?
ABC Science, 22 August, 2023
As Australia prepares for more extreme weather events, what role might microgrids play in building resilience in our energy system? Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
Solar hours heating redefining regional battery storage requirements
Energy magazine, 4 August, 2023
A recent collaboration involving BSGIP and a regional Victorian town has had surprising and positive results in proving that moving electric hot water heating from nighttime to during solar hours has the potential to massively reduce required battery storage.
Buying time for the Great Barrier Reef
BSGIP news story, 6 July, 2023
Imagine shading the waters of the Great Barrier Reef by enhancing the cloud cover about it? Sounds like science fiction right? BSGIP student Dan Virah-Sawmy is part of a world first implementation project aiming to demonstrate just that.
BSGIP marks 5th anniversary with Impact Report
BSGIP news story, 28 June, 2023
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program celebrated a milestone anniversary in 2023 with the Program officially operational for five years. To mark the occasion, BSGIP has released a 5 Year Impact Report detailing the Program’s significant achievements.
Community batteries are popular – but we have to make sure they actually help share power
The Conversation, 17 May, 2023
In this opinion piece a team of experts from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program bring the discussion back to the fundamental ‘why’. Why use this form of mid-scale storage?
‘From brains to batteries’ – Associate Professor Marnie Shaw
News story, 15 May, 2023
Profile on BSGIP research leader, Marnie Shaw.
World-first flexible export limits are coming to rooftop solar. Here’s how they work
ABC Science online, 14 March, 2023
Featuring expert commentary on flexible export limits, also known as dynamic operating envelopes, by BSGIP’s Andrew Fraser.
Australian renewable energy struggles to hit grid with one solar farm wasting half its yearly output
The Guardian, 24 February 2023
Report on curtailment in the grid featuring expert commentary by BSGIP’s Jack Sorensen.
Explainer: What is congestion and curtailment in the National Electricity Market (NEM)?
BSGIP Explainer, 20 February 2023
This explainer seeks to answer some common questions around congestion and curtailment.
Curtailment due to congestion: what’s the state of play?
BSGIP news story, 20 February 2023
Report on the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s submission to the Energy Security Board’s Transmission Access Reform Directions paper.
Electric buses put to the test under Australian conditions
BSGIP news story, 14 February, 2023
Researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program have developed a new tool, using data collected from Australia’s largest electric bus pilot project. This new tool can assist other bus fleets looking to make the switch to electric.
The future of neighbourhood batteries is now
BSGIP news story, 13 February, 2023
Report on the Future of Neighbourhood Batteries in Australia conference held at ANU in November 2022.
News story, 10 February, 2023
Report on a visit by a team of Indonesian engineers to Australian battery laboratories, including BSGIP’s Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory.
Why community batteries could be the next step in the solar power revolution
ABC online, 19 January, 2023
This year the federal government will begin rolling out 400 community, or neighbourhood, batteries. With expert commentary by Prof Lachlan Blackhall.
New research supports rapid decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system
BSGIP news story, 16 January, 2023
Research by the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program shines a light on the complex world of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and shows how dynamic carbon costs could play a critical role in improving the trade-off between emissions and costs.
Cosmos article, 9 December, 2022
Report on vanadium flow batteries, a 40 year-old Australian invention that is receiving renewed focus as our energy grids transition, with expert commentary by A/Prof Alexey Glushenkov.
Children’s book helps power clean energy transition
ANU news story, 7 November, 2022
Renewable energy researcher at The Australian National University (ANU) and 2022 Tall Poppy recipient Dr Bjorn Sturmberg can now add published author to his resume with the launch of his new book, Amy’s Balancing Act, a children’s fable about the transition to clean energy.
BSGIP researcher recognised for leadership in clean energy
BSGIP news story, 27 October, 2022
Dr Marnie Shaw, Research Fellow with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program (BSGIP), has been recognised for her leadership in clean energy, receiving a Chloe Munro Scholarship for Transformational Leadership from the Clean Energy Council.
Accolades for BSGIP at national engineering awards ceremony
BSGIP news story, 13 October, 2022
The Program was recognised at the prestigious Engineers Australia national awards ceremony in Sydney last week receiving two honours, an individual award and a project finalist award.
Young ANU scientist receives Tall Poppy honour
ANU News story, 10 October, 2022
Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Research Leader with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, has been honoured for excellence in research, and for the communication of that research beyond academia.
‘DEIP Dive’ 2022 explores a distributed energy future
ARENA News story, 29 September, 2022
ARENA, Energy Networks Australia and the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program welcomed to the Australian National University close to 150 guests from industry, academia & government last month to discuss the integration of electric vehicles and other distributed energy resources. Summary Report.
Battery group student honoured with Global Undergraduate Award win
BSGIP News story, 13 September, 2022
Oliver Hervir was recognised by the Global Undergraduate Awards, an international student competition in Dublin, Ireland, for his research into dual-carbon batteries.
The Conversation, 2 September, 2022
This week, the Australian Energy Market Operator warned gaps in electricity supply are likely within three years writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
One skill shortage more than any is holding back Australia in the race to net zero
Renew Economy, 31 August, 2022
The race to create zero carbon economies is heating up dramatically in 2022. This is a race to not only secure a safe climate but also to secure prosperity in this century’s global economy writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
Evolve takes out Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award
News story, 19 August, 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program and partner Zepben won this year’s Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award.
Who will drive vehicle-to-grid?
Utility magazine, 2 August, 2022
Opinion piece written by Bjorn Sturmberg, Kathryn Lucas-Healey and Laura Jones.
Australians are installing rooftop solar like never before. Who is burdened with taking care of it?
The Conversation article, 15 July, 2022
Our new research has found rooftop solar maintenance, as with other forms of housework, has the potential to become an equity issue. And the burden of this unrecognised work is set to worsen as the energy transition accelerates.
Energy crisis – report snapshot shows the state of renewables in Australia
ATSE briefing, 11 July, 2022
Lachlan Blackhall was one of five energy experts to provide a briefing on the state-of-play of renewables recently. The briefing launched a new short report from the Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering: Here and now – the state of low emissions technology in Australia.
Electric vehicles pass the remote road test
ANU press release, 8 July, 2022
Electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia, a new study from The Australian National University (ANU) has shown.
BSGIP news story, 27 June 2022
Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov and colleagues from the Research School of Earth Sciences received $180,000 from the ANU College of Science Research Strategic Programs funding for 2022 for a project looking at critical minerals at high pressures – novel compounds for storage batteries.
The clean energy revolution is more than just a techno-fix
The Conversation article, 24 June 2022
The Black Summer bushfires devastated parts of the Eurobodalla region in New South Wales. Then earlier this year, the area was hit by floods. As climate change threatens to bring more severe and frequent extreme weather events, how can we help future-proof such communities?
Program extends research into agricultural industry with funding win
BSGIP news story, 23 June 2022
Lachlan Blackhall recently led a team that was awarded funding in the latest round of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Strategic Investment Program for a project titled ‘Multi Energy System Modelling for the Agricultural Sector’.
NSW South Coast communities selected for microgrid studies
BSGIP news story, 16 June 2022
A federally funded project examining the use of microgrids to bolster local energy resilience has selected eight sites across the Eurobodalla for further studies.
Australia – Germany collaboration evaluates dual-ion batteries with phosphorus negative electrodes
BSGIP news story, 15 June 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s battery materials team from the ANU Research School of Chemistry joined forces with the Munster Electrochemical Energy Technology (MEET) Centre to assess a new variety of dual-ion battery that utilises negative electrode materials containing black phosphorus.
BSGIP news story, 6 June 2022
The launch of Melbourne’s first inner-urban community battery on Sunday 5 June is welcome news, and not just for the local Fitzroy North residents.
Renew Economy, 25 May 2022
A new paradigm is needed in the energy sector, one that encapsulates people’s hopes and ideals. Neighbourhood batteries could help with this, but the positive benefits are not guaranteed. Opinion article written by Hedda Ransan-Cooper, Marnie Shaw, Wendy Russell and Louise Bardwell.
The Conversation, 11 May 2022
18 transport and energy experts have created an independent, science-based summary to support the decarbonisation of Australia’s transport sector.
Australia needs to get motoring on clean transport strategy
ANU media release, 11 May 2022
Co-author of the Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy (FACTS), launched today, Dr Bjorn Sturmberg says the lack of clear direction is slowing our adoption of clean technologies, such as electric cars and buses.
Stockpiling solar power in suburban batteries
ARENA Rewired podcast, 28 April 2022
Interview with Dr Marnie Shaw about a new wave of community energy projects.
Optimism, Climate Change and Start-ups
Talking Tech Policy podcast, 9 May 2022
Interview with Professor Lachlan Blackhall on what innovation really is and the value of ideas – drawing from Lachlan’s exquisite blog “Death of a Startup.”
Powerline fires wreak havoc but a renewable microgrid alternative is rolling out
ABC online, 20 April 2022
After a spate of bushfires, a Western Australian regional electrical network is replacing overhead lines in fire prone regions with off-grid solar and battery systems. Featuring commentary by Dr Elizabeth Ratnam.
A community battery ‘like a corner store’: Is this the future of home energy storage
ABC online, 5 April 2022
Report on community, or neighbourhood batteries featuring expert commentary by Drs Marnie Shaw and Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
First electric vehicle chargers now on campus
22 March 2022
The Acton campus is now home to the University’s first electric vehicle (EV) chargers. One Type 2 EV charger and one bi-directional EV charger have been installed in the Geology Close carpark, in front of the Ian Ross building on North Road. The Type 2 charger is available to the ANU community, free of charge when not in use for research purposes.
Student profile: Lizbeth Dimonti
11 March 2022
Meet Lizbeth Dimonti, the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s newest Phd candidate. Lizbeth’s research will focus on the visualisation & characterisation of batteries via cutting-edge electron microscopy.
‘Cutting through the greenwash’: Australian energy retailers ranked on climate action
The Guardian, 8 February 2022
Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program.
Excuse me, can I use your car to stabilise and power the grid?
Clean Technica, 24 January 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
The unknown unknowns of vehicle-to-grid tech
Clean Technica, 24 January, 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
V2G driving grid changes
PV Magazine, 15 January, 2022
The uptake of EVs in the years ahead will add up to staggering battery capacity, mostly sitting idle on driveways. Featuring commentary by Laura Jones, Senior Analyst at BSGIP
Why it’s vital to put people at the heart of the energy transition
Renew Economy, 14 December, 2021
Thought leadership piece written by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at BSGIP.
Neighbourhood batteries in Australia
PV Tech Power, November, 2021
Written for an international audience, this article delves into the state-of-play of neighbourhood batteries in Australia.
Australia’s R&D spend too low to fund future climate change technology breakthroughs: experts
The Canberra Times, 19 November, 2021
Expert commentary on the lack of R&D funding in Australia by Prof Andrew Blakers, Prof Frank Jotzo, Prof Lachlan Blackhall (pictured in the Distributed Energy Resources Lab at ANU) and Prof Mark Howden.
A spark for the future
Opinion piece by Prof Lachlan Blackhall, Daily Telegraph, 5 November, 2021
The world is watching and waiting in anticipation as global leaders gather in Glasgow for COP26, in the hope that international governments will agree actionable commitments that start to achieve rapid and sustained decarbonisation over the decades ahead.
The rubber hits the road for Australia’s largest electric bus fleet project
BSGIP news story, 21 October, 2021
A new pilot project set to drive down emissions in public transport and heavy transport has today been announced. The $36 million project will consist of Australia’s largest electric bus fleet (40 buses), charging infrastructure and a retrofitted bus depot in Leichhardt, Sydney.
Local network pricing and community storage a powerful combo
Ecogeneration article featuring by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, 15 October, 2021
If networks could charge for localised use of their service, all customers in areas with high PV and community-scale batteries would pay lower bills … with no cost to the network, research shows.
Many rooftop solar investors are feeling ripped off. Could battery subsidies solve the problem?
ABC online article featuring expert commentary by Professor Lachlan Blackhall, 30 September, 2021
Some solar owners are being told they can’t export power to the grid or are being hit with solar export limits due to fears the network can’t cope, meaning their excess clean energy is essentially being wasted.
Distrust of the energy industry could slow the rollout of all-electric households
Switched On podcast & accompanying news article, 12 September, 2023
Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, one of Australia’s leading energy social scientists, discusses what she has learnt from her countless interviews with Australians discussing the energy transition and new energy technologies.
5 Rs of reducing carbon emissions from university air travel
Linked In blog post, 8 September, 2023
When it comes to reducing carbon emissions from university air travel, the 5 Rs can help us – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose and Recycle, writes Associate Professor Kim Blackmore.
Well this is awkward: confronting carbon emissions in academic air travel
Linked In blog post, 28 August, 2023
Blog post by Associate Professor Kim Blackmore. Kim is working on the Australian National University’s Below Zero initiative, which aims to transition the University from being a source of greenhouse gas emissions to a carbon sink.
Are all-renewable microgrids the future for regional Australia facing climate disasters?
ABC Science, 22 August, 2023
As Australia prepares for more extreme weather events, what role might microgrids play in building resilience in our energy system? Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
Solar hours heating redefining regional battery storage requirements
Energy magazine, 4 August, 2023
A recent collaboration involving BSGIP and a regional Victorian town has had surprising and positive results in proving that moving electric hot water heating from nighttime to during solar hours has the potential to massively reduce required battery storage.
Buying time for the Great Barrier Reef
BSGIP news story, 6 July, 2023
Imagine shading the waters of the Great Barrier Reef by enhancing the cloud cover about it? Sounds like science fiction right? BSGIP student Dan Virah-Sawmy is part of a world first implementation project aiming to demonstrate just that.
BSGIP marks 5th anniversary with Impact Report
BSGIP news story, 28 June, 2023
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program celebrated a milestone anniversary in 2023 with the Program officially operational for five years. To mark the occasion, BSGIP has released a 5 Year Impact Report detailing the Program’s significant achievements.
Community batteries are popular – but we have to make sure they actually help share power
The Conversation, 17 May, 2023
In this opinion piece a team of experts from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program bring the discussion back to the fundamental ‘why’. Why use this form of mid-scale storage?
‘From brains to batteries’ – Associate Professor Marnie Shaw
News story, 15 May, 2023
Profile on BSGIP research leader, Marnie Shaw.
World-first flexible export limits are coming to rooftop solar. Here’s how they work
ABC Science online, 14 March, 2023
Featuring expert commentary on flexible export limits, also known as dynamic operating envelopes, by BSGIP’s Andrew Fraser.
Australian renewable energy struggles to hit grid with one solar farm wasting half its yearly output
The Guardian, 24 February 2023
Report on curtailment in the grid featuring expert commentary by BSGIP’s Jack Sorensen.
Explainer: What is congestion and curtailment in the National Electricity Market (NEM)?
BSGIP Explainer, 20 February 2023
This explainer seeks to answer some common questions around congestion and curtailment.
Curtailment due to congestion: what’s the state of play?
BSGIP news story, 20 February 2023
Report on the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s submission to the Energy Security Board’s Transmission Access Reform Directions paper.
Electric buses put to the test under Australian conditions
BSGIP news story, 14 February, 2023
Researchers from the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program have developed a new tool, using data collected from Australia’s largest electric bus pilot project. This new tool can assist other bus fleets looking to make the switch to electric.
The future of neighbourhood batteries is now
BSGIP news story, 13 February, 2023
Report on the Future of Neighbourhood Batteries in Australia conference held at ANU in November 2022.
News story, 10 February, 2023
Report on a visit by a team of Indonesian engineers to Australian battery laboratories, including BSGIP’s Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory.
Why community batteries could be the next step in the solar power revolution
ABC online, 19 January, 2023
This year the federal government will begin rolling out 400 community, or neighbourhood, batteries. With expert commentary by Prof Lachlan Blackhall.
New research supports rapid decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system
BSGIP news story, 16 January, 2023
Research by the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program shines a light on the complex world of the National Electricity Market (NEM) and shows how dynamic carbon costs could play a critical role in improving the trade-off between emissions and costs.
Cosmos article, 9 December, 2022
Report on vanadium flow batteries, a 40 year-old Australian invention that is receiving renewed focus as our energy grids transition, with expert commentary by A/Prof Alexey Glushenkov.
Children’s book helps power clean energy transition
ANU news story, 7 November, 2022
Renewable energy researcher at The Australian National University (ANU) and 2022 Tall Poppy recipient Dr Bjorn Sturmberg can now add published author to his resume with the launch of his new book, Amy’s Balancing Act, a children’s fable about the transition to clean energy.
BSGIP researcher recognised for leadership in clean energy
BSGIP news story, 27 October, 2022
Dr Marnie Shaw, Research Fellow with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program (BSGIP), has been recognised for her leadership in clean energy, receiving a Chloe Munro Scholarship for Transformational Leadership from the Clean Energy Council.
Accolades for BSGIP at national engineering awards ceremony
BSGIP news story, 13 October, 2022
The Program was recognised at the prestigious Engineers Australia national awards ceremony in Sydney last week receiving two honours, an individual award and a project finalist award.
Young ANU scientist receives Tall Poppy honour
ANU News story, 10 October, 2022
Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Research Leader with the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, has been honoured for excellence in research, and for the communication of that research beyond academia.
‘DEIP Dive’ 2022 explores a distributed energy future
ARENA News story, 29 September, 2022
ARENA, Energy Networks Australia and the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program welcomed to the Australian National University close to 150 guests from industry, academia & government last month to discuss the integration of electric vehicles and other distributed energy resources. Summary Report.
Battery group student honoured with Global Undergraduate Award win
BSGIP News story, 13 September, 2022
Oliver Hervir was recognised by the Global Undergraduate Awards, an international student competition in Dublin, Ireland, for his research into dual-carbon batteries.
The Conversation, 2 September, 2022
This week, the Australian Energy Market Operator warned gaps in electricity supply are likely within three years writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
One skill shortage more than any is holding back Australia in the race to net zero
Renew Economy, 31 August, 2022
The race to create zero carbon economies is heating up dramatically in 2022. This is a race to not only secure a safe climate but also to secure prosperity in this century’s global economy writes Bjorn Sturmberg.
Evolve takes out Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award
News story, 19 August, 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program and partner Zepben won this year’s Engineers Australia Canberra Excellence Project Award.
Who will drive vehicle-to-grid?
Utility magazine, 2 August, 2022
Opinion piece written by Bjorn Sturmberg, Kathryn Lucas-Healey and Laura Jones.
Australians are installing rooftop solar like never before. Who is burdened with taking care of it?
The Conversation article, 15 July, 2022
Our new research has found rooftop solar maintenance, as with other forms of housework, has the potential to become an equity issue. And the burden of this unrecognised work is set to worsen as the energy transition accelerates.
Energy crisis – report snapshot shows the state of renewables in Australia
ATSE briefing, 11 July, 2022
Lachlan Blackhall was one of five energy experts to provide a briefing on the state-of-play of renewables recently. The briefing launched a new short report from the Australian Academy of Technology & Engineering: Here and now – the state of low emissions technology in Australia.
Electric vehicles pass the remote road test
ANU press release, 8 July, 2022
Electric vehicles can handle the distances required to travel to essential services in remote and regional Australia, a new study from The Australian National University (ANU) has shown.
BSGIP news story, 27 June 2022
Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov and colleagues from the Research School of Earth Sciences received $180,000 from the ANU College of Science Research Strategic Programs funding for 2022 for a project looking at critical minerals at high pressures – novel compounds for storage batteries.
The clean energy revolution is more than just a techno-fix
The Conversation article, 24 June 2022
The Black Summer bushfires devastated parts of the Eurobodalla region in New South Wales. Then earlier this year, the area was hit by floods. As climate change threatens to bring more severe and frequent extreme weather events, how can we help future-proof such communities?
Program extends research into agricultural industry with funding win
BSGIP news story, 23 June 2022
Lachlan Blackhall recently led a team that was awarded funding in the latest round of the Centre for Entrepreneurial Agri-Technology Strategic Investment Program for a project titled ‘Multi Energy System Modelling for the Agricultural Sector’.
NSW South Coast communities selected for microgrid studies
BSGIP news story, 16 June 2022
A federally funded project examining the use of microgrids to bolster local energy resilience has selected eight sites across the Eurobodalla for further studies.
Australia – Germany collaboration evaluates dual-ion batteries with phosphorus negative electrodes
BSGIP news story, 15 June 2022
The Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s battery materials team from the ANU Research School of Chemistry joined forces with the Munster Electrochemical Energy Technology (MEET) Centre to assess a new variety of dual-ion battery that utilises negative electrode materials containing black phosphorus.
BSGIP news story, 6 June 2022
The launch of Melbourne’s first inner-urban community battery on Sunday 5 June is welcome news, and not just for the local Fitzroy North residents.
Renew Economy, 25 May 2022
A new paradigm is needed in the energy sector, one that encapsulates people’s hopes and ideals. Neighbourhood batteries could help with this, but the positive benefits are not guaranteed. Opinion article written by Hedda Ransan-Cooper, Marnie Shaw, Wendy Russell and Louise Bardwell.
The Conversation, 11 May 2022
18 transport and energy experts have created an independent, science-based summary to support the decarbonisation of Australia’s transport sector.
Australia needs to get motoring on clean transport strategy
ANU media release, 11 May 2022
Co-author of the Framework for an Australian Clean Transport Strategy (FACTS), launched today, Dr Bjorn Sturmberg says the lack of clear direction is slowing our adoption of clean technologies, such as electric cars and buses.
Stockpiling solar power in suburban batteries
ARENA Rewired podcast, 28 April 2022
Interview with Dr Marnie Shaw about a new wave of community energy projects.
Optimism, Climate Change and Start-ups
Talking Tech Policy podcast, 9 May 2022
Interview with Professor Lachlan Blackhall on what innovation really is and the value of ideas – drawing from Lachlan’s exquisite blog “Death of a Startup.”
Powerline fires wreak havoc but a renewable microgrid alternative is rolling out
ABC online, 20 April 2022
After a spate of bushfires, a Western Australian regional electrical network is replacing overhead lines in fire prone regions with off-grid solar and battery systems. Featuring commentary by Dr Elizabeth Ratnam.
A community battery ‘like a corner store’: Is this the future of home energy storage
ABC online, 5 April 2022
Report on community, or neighbourhood batteries featuring expert commentary by Drs Marnie Shaw and Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
First electric vehicle chargers now on campus
22 March 2022
The Acton campus is now home to the University’s first electric vehicle (EV) chargers. One Type 2 EV charger and one bi-directional EV charger have been installed in the Geology Close carpark, in front of the Ian Ross building on North Road. The Type 2 charger is available to the ANU community, free of charge when not in use for research purposes.
Student profile: Lizbeth Dimonti
11 March 2022
Meet Lizbeth Dimonti, the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program’s newest Phd candidate. Lizbeth’s research will focus on the visualisation & characterisation of batteries via cutting-edge electron microscopy.
‘Cutting through the greenwash’: Australian energy retailers ranked on climate action
The Guardian, 8 February 2022
Featuring expert commentary by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program.
Excuse me, can I use your car to stabilise and power the grid?
Clean Technica, 24 January 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
The unknown unknowns of vehicle-to-grid tech
Clean Technica, 24 January, 2022
Article on the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services Interim Social Report.
V2G driving grid changes
PV Magazine, 15 January, 2022
The uptake of EVs in the years ahead will add up to staggering battery capacity, mostly sitting idle on driveways. Featuring commentary by Laura Jones, Senior Analyst at BSGIP
Why it’s vital to put people at the heart of the energy transition
Renew Economy, 14 December, 2021
Thought leadership piece written by Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper, social science research lead at BSGIP.
Neighbourhood batteries in Australia
PV Tech Power, November, 2021
Written for an international audience, this article delves into the state-of-play of neighbourhood batteries in Australia.
Australia’s R&D spend too low to fund future climate change technology breakthroughs: experts
The Canberra Times, 19 November, 2021
Expert commentary on the lack of R&D funding in Australia by Prof Andrew Blakers, Prof Frank Jotzo, Prof Lachlan Blackhall (pictured in the Distributed Energy Resources Lab at ANU) and Prof Mark Howden.
A spark for the future
Opinion piece by Prof Lachlan Blackhall, Daily Telegraph, 5 November, 2021
The world is watching and waiting in anticipation as global leaders gather in Glasgow for COP26, in the hope that international governments will agree actionable commitments that start to achieve rapid and sustained decarbonisation over the decades ahead.
The rubber hits the road for Australia’s largest electric bus fleet project
BSGIP news story, 21 October, 2021
A new pilot project set to drive down emissions in public transport and heavy transport has today been announced. The $36 million project will consist of Australia’s largest electric bus fleet (40 buses), charging infrastructure and a retrofitted bus depot in Leichhardt, Sydney.
Local network pricing and community storage a powerful combo
Ecogeneration article featuring by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, 15 October, 2021
If networks could charge for localised use of their service, all customers in areas with high PV and community-scale batteries would pay lower bills … with no cost to the network, research shows.
Many rooftop solar investors are feeling ripped off. Could battery subsidies solve the problem?
ABC online article featuring expert commentary by Professor Lachlan Blackhall, 30 September, 2021
Some solar owners are being told they can’t export power to the grid or are being hit with solar export limits due to fears the network can’t cope, meaning their excess clean energy is essentially being wasted.
The power flow tech revolutionising solar
30 August, 2021
The Australian Academy of Technology and Engineering (ATSE) TechNow podcast (20 mins) featuring Prof Lachlan Blackhall and Dr Elizabeth Ratnam.
Energy stored in electric car batteries could power your home or stabilise the grid – and save you money
10 August, 2021
ABC online news story featuring Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Dr Kat Lucas-Healey and the Realising Electric Vehicles-to-grid Services (REVS) project.
Southcoast microgrid project energised with 3.125M in funding
5 August, 2021
BSGIP and partners are delighted by news of successful project funding for a microgrid feasibility project for the Eurobodalla region.
FIRE! … the tiny triggers that can send lithium-ion batteries up in flames
Ecogeneration, 3 August, 2021
Expert commentary by Associate Professor Alexey Glushenkov.
Complicated, costly and downright frustrating: Aussies keen to cut emissions with clean energy at home get little support
The Conversation, 3 August, 2021
Research, by Hugo Temby and Hedda Ransan-Cooper, into customer experiences with new energy technologies.
You want to do what with my EV? Turning cars into batteries on wheels
The Fifth Estate, 29 July, 2021
Vehicle-to-grid technology can turn electric cars into energy storage when the owners are not using them. EV industry researcher, Kat Lucas-Healey asks if the system is as good in reality as it sounds on paper.
Algorithms are driving the digitisation of our energy system – we must design them responsibly
Blog post by Marnie Shaw, 23 July, 2021
This ‘story’ behind the paper’ originally accompanied a paper published in Nature Energy – Applying responsible algorithm design to neighbourhood-scale batteries in Australia.
Lab launch gives new energy to our renewables future
ANU Press Release, 13 July, 2021
The Distributed Energy Resources Laboratory was officially opened by Andrew Barr, Chief Minister, ACT Government, heralding in a new age in the energy transition.
Check your mirrors: 3 things rooftop solar can teach us about Australia’s electric car rollout
The Conversation, 10 June, 2021
Australia’s world-leading rollout of rooftop solar can help guide the country’s transition to electric vehicles. Article by Bjorn Sturmberg, Kat Lucas-Healey, Laura Jones and Mejbaul Haque.
Powering ahead with community batteries
ANU Press Release, 1 June, 2021
ANU press release into BSGIP community battery research led by Dr Marnie Shaw & Dr Hedda Ransan-Cooper.
BSGIP announces partnership in Melbourne ‘Solar Sponge’ community battery trial
28 May, 2021
BSGIP research into community-scale batteries is set to be applied in the Melbourne CBD thanks to a three-way partnership between BSGIP, the Yarra Energy Foundation and electricity network Citipower.
Explainer: When can I charge my house from my EV?
One Step off the Grid, 26 May, 2021
Dr Kat Lucas Healey explains the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services (REVS) project.
Nissan vehicle-to-grid technology
Nissan video, 29 April, 2021
This video features the Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services (REVS) project.
What’s the role of community batteries in the climate emergency?
Yarra City Council webinar recording, 8 April, 2021
Learn how community batteries will have a role to play in responding to the climate emergency. Featuring Dr Marnie Shaw.
Community batteries: what are they, and how could they help Australian energy consumers?
The Guardian, 5 April, 2021
Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Head, Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program, spoke to The Guardian about the financial prospects of community battery projects.
Should solar owners pay to supply the grid, or are there other options?
ABC Science online, 30 March, 2021
Dr Marnie Shaw provides expert commentary on the challenges and opportunities associated with the influx of rooftop solar entering the electricity system.
Solar eclipse, and can EVs really provide storage on wheels?
Energy Insiders Podcast, 19 March, 2021
Senior analyst with the REVS project, Laura Jones, talks EVs, V2G, V2X & various other V2s in this interview (starts at approx 11.30 mins).
Making EVs a grid asset – an Australian case study
Supergen Smart Charging Webinar, 13 March, 2021
REVS researchers Laura Jones and Kathryn Lucas-Healey describe how vehicles are being integrated into the Australian power system through vehicle-to-grid technology.
International review of vehicle-to-grid technology
ARENA Insights Spotlight, February 2021
In this interview, Dr Bjorn Sturmberg discusses ‘The A to Z of V2G’ report, which provides a comprehensive review of international V2G projects, exploring the benefits and challenges of V2G technology.
Empowering DER through dynamic operating envelopes
Professor Lachlan Blackhall, Utility Magazine, 24 February 2021
Dynamic operating envelopes are one important way to enable greater hosting capacity for solar PV, battery storage and electric vehicles in the electricity grid.
Take a virtual tour of the Battery Lab
You Tube video, 18 February 2021
The Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory was officially unveiled via an online event on 16 February 2021. View the video of the lab shown at the event here.
How big batteries are a boon for regional Australia
Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, Canberra Times, 25 January 2021
Recent announcements that two big batteries will be built at coal-fired power stations in NSW are great news for the energy system and regional communities across Australia.
The trouble with big targets…it’s exports versus the NEM
Ecogeneration, 18 January 2021
Report on the opportunities Australia has to export clean energy and what it could mean for the National Electricity Market. Featuring commentary by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg.
Largest battery in Australia to be built at ageing NSW coal-fired power plant
ABC online news article featuring expert commentary by Dr Marnie Shaw, 13 January 2021
An energy provider’s plan to build Australia’s largest battery is the latest development in a quickly transitioning energy market.
The electric vehicle revolution is coming, so let’s get prepared
By Sarah Wilson, 22 December 2020
If interviews with owners of electric vehicles (EVs) have revealed one clear message, it is that once people buy an EV, going back to a petrol or diesel vehicle is highly unlikely. EVs are fun, fast and fabulous.
The driving force behind REVS (Realising Electric Vehicles-to-grid Services)
By Sarah Wilson, 21 December 2020
A bold initiative of the ACT Government, to electrify their fleet of vehicles, has grown into a world-leading research and demonstration project that is setting the scene for large-scale adoption of vehicle-to-grid technology in Australia.
“Everyone’s a winner”: PICA Group secures Australian-first strata solar electricity deal
The Fifth Estate article featuring expert commentary by Dr Bjorn Sturmberg, 14 December 2020
An electricity deal struck for both the good of the planet and thousands of residential tenants has been labelled a win-win by academics.
Funding boost for Battery Lab
26 November 2020
Researchers at the Battery Materials and Energy Storage Laboratory (Battery Lab) have been awarded an Australian Research Council (ARC) Discovery grant valued at $420,000 over three years.
Batteries in the burbs: exploring the potential
By Lachlan Blackhall, 24 November 2020
A team at the Australian National University has undertaken a significant project to explore the potential benefits of community batteries, as well as the attitudes of residents towards them.
Householders making Australia a DER superpower
By Sarah Wilson, 20 November 2020
Australia is on track to have the most decentralised electricity network in the world, overtaking Germany for top position in coming years. It is the adoption not only of solar PV but also a range of technologies collectively referred to as Distributed Energy Resources (DER) that is responsible for our status as a DER superpower.
Dynamic operating envelopes: what are they and why are they so important?
By Sarah Wilson, 9 November 2020
BSGIP recently published a report that delves into the calculation and use of dynamic operating envelopes, a mechanism central to the evolve project.
ACT’s big battery pledge is a step forward
By Dr Björn Sturmberg, The Canberra Times, 2 October 2020
This week, ACT Labor proposed a network of large batteries in the territory that will have a total capacity of 250 megawatts. That’s two-thirds larger than the world’s current largest battery, which is in South Australia, and may well be amongst the top 50 by the time it’s completed.
Position vacant: Research Fellow/Fellow
ANU Job Description, 28 September 2020
An electrical engineering position is now available within the Battery Storage and Grid Integration Program. The successful applicant will be working on power systems/power electronics for electric vehicles, batteries & grid integration
The power of battery storage recharged with cash splash
ANU Press Release, 15 September 2020
Research to better unlock the potential of battery technologies has been given a vital funding boost as part of the latest round of the Australian Capital Territory’s renewable energy reverse auction.
Making solar + batteries work for all
PV Magazine article with Dr Lachlan Blackhall, 3 August 2020
Trials of large-scale battery capabilities in Australia are showing great promise; behind the meter, households are buying into state-based battery programs and subsidies. Here, ANU’s Dr Lachlan Blackhall talks about the exciting potential for mid-scale community battery storage, future EV storage capacity, and more.
Potential for new-era data services from consumer electricity devices
By Wattwatchers Team, 22 July 2020
Opportunities to capture and use energy data from intelligent, distributed devices installed in homes and enterprises have been explored in research reports commissioned by Wattwatchers Digital Energy.
Owners of electric vehicles to be paid to plug into the grid to help avoid blackouts
By Dr Björn Sturmberg, The Conversation, 8 July 2020
The newly launched Realising Electric Vehicle-to-grid Services project (REVS) will see owners paid to plug their electric vehicles into the national electricity grid. In exchange, the vehicles will allow the national grid operator to draw upon their batteries in the rare moments that the grid is on the brink of a blackout.
Electric vehicle fleets set to be on-call to back-up the grid
ANU Press Release, 8 July 2020
A team from The Australian National University will lead research into how electric vehicles (EVs) can support our energy grids.The EVs will act to prevent blackouts and the researchers say that if all of Australia’s vehicles went electric they would provide more power than five Snowy Hydro 2.0s.
Shared community battery may be trialled in solar-powered Canberra suburb to stabilise energy supply
ABC News article featuring expert commentary by Dr Marnie Shaw, 5 June 2020
Australia is home to the planet’s biggest battery. It is also the world’s leading market for household batteries. But Canberra researchers suggest medium-sized batteries — shared between several hundred homes — could be just as crucial for the energy grid’s future.
COVID-19, climate change and the value of experts
By Dr Lachlan Blackhall, 19 May 2020
The last six months have been tumultuous for all Australians. We have experienced the destructive fury of an unprecedented bushfire season and are now facing a global pandemic. COVID-19, and our collective response to it, is causing significant social and economic upheaval. Thankfully, our timely and collective response has likely averted a catastrophe in Australia.
Citizens required to power community batteries
By Marion Rae, Australian Energy Daily, 15 May 2020
Community battery storage isn’t just an engineering and development puzzle for regulators and town planners, it’s a social challenge, according to researchers from the Australian National University.
Storage comes to calm the market
Ecogeneration article featuring expert commentary by Dr Björn Sturmberg, 11 May 2020
Energy storage is a mandatory inclusion in a grid supplied by unpredictable wind and solar. As costs continue to fall more of these important assets are lining up to connect.
Microgrids: how to keep the power on when disaster hits
By Dr Björn Sturmberg, The Conversation, 11 February 2020
Decentralised ‘microgrids’ with many local and small-scale generators, interconnected but able to operate independently when necessary can help make the electricity grid more resilient in times of disaster.
Our future: a new electricity grid for a new climate era
By Dr Björn Sturmberg, The Canberra Times, 3 February 2020
As our government looks for solutions to address climate change, investing in microgrids and transmission lines are obvious starting points.
Australia must declare World War Zero on carbon emissions
By Dr Björn Sturmberg, The Canberra Times, 15 January 2020
No longer are the consequences of our actions far away in time or space. The nightmarish future we were long warned about has arrived and is staring us in the face along firefronts thousands of kilometres long and 70 metres high.
New lab to help drive Australia’s low carbon energy future
Australian National University Press Release, 4 September 2019
Australian National University Entrepreneurial Fellow inaugural address
11 July 2019
Dr Lachlan Backhall, head of the Battery Storage Grid Integration Program presented the 2019 Entrepreneurial Fellow Inaugural address.
Welcome investment in future energy grid
Australian National University Press Release, 13 February 2019
The Australian and New South Wales governments have invested $7 million in a project that aims to develop new ways to operate the existing energy grid. The Australian Renewable Energy Agency and NSW government have invested in the evolve project, a consortium of nine partners led by software development company Zepben and The Australian National University.
Green is the new black: how renewables and storage will replace coal
By Dr Lachlan Blackhall, The Sydney Morning Herald, 29 November 2018
While one end of Australia’s political spectrum ramps up plans to underwrite new coal fired power stations, there is now have a competing policy agenda that positions renewable energy and battery storage as key pillars of Australia’s energy system.
ANU announces new leader of battery storage program
Australian National University Press Release, 6 April 2018
The ANU has announced the appointment of Dr Lachlan Blackhall to lead an $8M international research program to improve ways to integrate battery storage with the electricity grid.
