Tassie Retailer Helps Port of Brisbane with Solar
The Port of Brisbane, a major player in shipping and logistics in Queensland, has teamed up with Tasmanian renewable energy retailer Momentum Energy. The collaboration allows the Port to redistribute excess solar power generated at one site to other operations within its network.
Momentum Energy recently announced that the Port of Brisbane Pty Ltd (PBPL) has become the inaugural client of its Virtual Energy Network (VEN) service. This innovative offering is designed to assist commercial and industrial clients in maximising their solar energy usage while promoting self-consumption.
Efficient Solar Utilisation for Commercial and Industrial Businesses
The VEN service targets businesses that produce surplus solar energy at one location but lack the capacity to install solar panels at other sites due to logistical or economic constraints. The Port of Brisbane exemplifies this scenario, with 800kW of solar panels at its International Cruise Terminal consistently generating more power than needed at the terminal.
Through the Enosi Powertracer Platform, the VEN analyses data from smart meters across all Port of Brisbane sites. This data is used to match solar exports with grid imports every thirty minutes. Consequently, Momentum Energy offsets excess solar energy produced at the terminal against energy consumption at other PBPL sites, reducing reliance on grid electricity.
Positive Feedback and Expansion Plans
Cam Taylor, Head of Energy Solutions at Momentum, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration following a successful trial period. He highlighted the positive results and feedback received from customers, indicating plans to expand the VEN service to a wider commercial and industrial audience, including small to medium enterprises.
Brendan Connell, Executive General Manager of Sustainability at Port of Brisbane, praised the VEN service for its role in supporting the company’s Net Zero goals. The partnership has enabled the sharing of solar benefits across PBPL facilities, showcasing a commitment to sustainability.
Enhancing Solar Investment Opportunities
Momentum’s Managing Director, Lisa Chiba, emphasised that the VEN service not only optimises existing solar installations but also encourages businesses to invest in larger solar systems. By offering a quicker return on investment, Momentum’s VEN motivates commercial and industrial customers to engage in large-scale solar projects, contributing to the energy transition.
Furthermore, the agreement between Port of Brisbane and Momentum includes a Corporate Power Purchase Agreement (CPPA), allowing the purchase of renewable energy certificates from the Granville Harbour Wind Farm in Tasmania. This initiative aligns with Port of Brisbane’s aim to achieve net zero emissions by 2030.
Overall, the collaboration between Port of Brisbane and Momentum Energy signifies a step towards sustainable energy practices and efficient solar utilisation within the commercial and industrial sector. The innovative VEN service offers a practical solution for businesses seeking to maximise solar energy benefits and reduce their carbon footprint.
