Microgrid and distributed energy resources report released

State Parliament’s Economics and Industry Standing Committee has released a report into its inquiry examining the future of microgrids and other energy solutions in WA. The Committee, chaired by West Swan MLA Jessica Shaw, made 73 findings and a further 21 recommendations aimed at complementing the State’s Energy Transformation Strategy and to provide clarity to industry and consumers around the role microgrids can play in WA’s energy future.

Noting the rapid changes and complexity of the energy sector, Ms Shaw said “Western Australia’s market structures are increasingly ill suited to the emerging distributed energy model.” Key recommendations include work around network tariff reform, greater direction for state owned energy agencies in performing their roles and greater accountability to enable consumers to better understand how energy transformation and microgrids impact them. Crucially, the report recommends against exemption-based licensing for new business models disrupting the energy retailing market.

Consistent with normal processes, the Committee has directed the Premier, along with the Energy and Housing Ministers, to give due consideration to the report and respond in due course.

A copy of the report can be found here.