Solar to power hot water and support sa’s energy grid

On behalf of the Australian Government, ARENA has announced $1.98 million towards Rheem Australia’s Active Hot Water Control project. Rheem’s renewable brand Solahart will conduct a trial using hot water systems in South Australia.

The project will integrate Solahart Powerstore – a solar smart, grid interactive, electric water heater – with a home energy management system. This will demonstrate a low-cost, scalable way for hot water systems to provide demand management services.

The project will explore approaches to active control over 2400 residential hot water systems in South Australia.

Residential customers with and without solar panels will be able to participate.

The Hon Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction, Angus Taylor, said the project will help South Australia to maximise the benefits of renewable energy.

‘Australia is experiencing a solar installation boom which is driving the creation of record new renewable capacity,’ the Minister said.

‘This project will help South Australia to get the most out of this boom and maximise the use of renewables in the grid, reducing pressure on the electricity system.’