The Western Australian government has launched a new pilot project in Kununurra, testing a long-duration vanadium flow battery to enhance clean, reliable, and affordable power supply in regional areas.

This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions for remote communities.

The pilot battery, supplied by VSUN Energy, boasts a 78-kilowatt capacity and 220 kilowatt-hours of storage.

Its vanadium flow technology is particularly well-suited for the harsh Kimberley climate, offering temperature resilience and long-duration energy delivery capabilities.

Horizon Power, the state’s regional energy provider, will use this 12-month trial to explore the integration of long-duration energy storage into its network, microgrids, and off-grid power systems.

This aligns with Western Australia’s broader energy strategy, which already utilises large-scale batteries in Kwinana and Collie to manage excess rooftop solar power.

Energy Minister Reece Whitby highlighted the importance of this project, stating: “This pilot won’t just mean there is more clean, reliable, and affordable power for regional WA — it means Horizon Power can better understand how batteries can support microgrids and other off-grid power systems throughout the state.”

Kimberley MLA Divina D’Anna expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to provide clean, reliable energy tailored to the unique climate of regional and remote communities.

This pilot project represents a crucial step in Western Australia’s energy transition, combining rooftop solar uptake with investments in large-scale storage and onshore wind, supplemented by gas when necessary.

As the trial progresses, it promises to yield valuable insights into the future of sustainable power solutions for remote areas across the state.