The Northern Territory Government has announced a solar and battery stimulus package, aimed at growing jobs in the sector and aiding economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Following the 2020 Easter long weekend, households and businesses in the Northern Territory will have the support of a new $6000 grant for the purchase and installation of solar PV systems with batteries and for adding batteries to existing systems.
The Household and Business Battery Scheme has an initial budget for $800,000 or 130 batteries.
The NT Chief Minister, Michael Gunner, also announced the procurement of a $30 million big battery for the Darwin-Katherine grid.
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) congratulated the NT Government on its solar and battery stimulus package and called on all other state and territory governments to follow their lead.
CEC Chief Executive, Kane Thornton, said the initiative represented the requisite action to boost consumer confidence and keep people employed during the uncertainty caused by the pandemic.
“Solar and battery storage is one of the best bang for buck investments for governments looking to boost skilled jobs in the regions,” Ms Thornton said.
“Solar and storage reduces electricity costs, employs locals, improves reliability and helps make remote areas more resilient during natural disasters.”
The CEC has published recommendations for solar and storage stimulus packages to boost clean energy jobs and counter the COVID-19 downturn.