Development of funding and finance models for an integrated solar battery solution

Summary

​This project involved an assessment of solar-storage solutions for Australian red meat processing facilities. The report includes case study investigations, desktop simulations and in-depth consultation with solar experts.

It was found that in most cases solar energy can deliver a 20% to 40% reduction in power bills with four to six-year payback at red meat processing facilities. Furthermore, due to innovative business models within the solar energy market, it is possible to establish a solar asset with no upfront capital cost.

It was also found that solar battery storage solutions are not economically viable in the cases investigated. This is due to the high cost of batteries relative to their utility. Although the cost of batteries is decreasing, it is still not at a point where it is practical for the applications investigated within this project.