Neighbourhood battery headed to Hurstbridge

Published on 06 June 2025

An image of solar panels set against a sunset

Community energy resilience has received a huge boost, with Council receiving a grant to install a solar and back-up battery system at Hurstbridge Football and Cricket Pavilion.

Funded by the Victorian Government under the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Grant Program, the $303,728 grant will cover 95 per cent of the purchase and installation costs of 38kW of solar and a 240kWh back-up battery at the facility. Council will contribute $12,000 to the project, and Hurstbridge Cricket Club and Hurstbridge Football Netball Club will each contribute $2,000.

Mayor John Dumaresq said the grant is a big win for the community.

“Energy resilience is a key focus for Council, particularly in our rural townships. This large-scale system will enable the clubs to provide power to residents in case of an extended power outage or major weather event,” Cr Dumaresq said.

Deputy Mayor and Bunjil Ward Councillor Naomi Joiner said the project would further bolster Hurstbridge’s energy capabilities.

“It's great to see the State Government recognise the importance of this pavilion and the clubs that utilise it as a central point for the community. Many families are connected to it, and investing in these facilities is crucial.

“We are grateful to have an additional centre to use during power outages in the town, especially with the recent grant from AusNet for extra solar power and a battery system at the Hurstbridge Hub. With these grants we are making significant progress in enhancing community energy security while also reducing our environmental footprint,” Cr Joiner said.

Hurstbridge Football Netball Club President Taylor Hopkins said the club welcomes the installation of the system.

“We’re a club that prides itself on being on the cutting edge,” Taylor said.

“We’re looking forward to seeing how it all unfurls going forward.”

The project aligns with Council’s Climate Action Plan 2022-2032 to develop resilience to climate change events and supports our target of net-zero community emissions by 2035; as well as Council’s commitment to sustainability and resilience, as outlined in the Council Plan 2021-2025. Installation is due to be completed by mid-2026.