GARDEN ISLAND will host the first world trial of a micro-powergrid.

The microgrid will combine wave and solar energy, a desalination plant and energy storage, reducing the need for remote places to rely on the main electricity network.

Western Power CEO Paul Italiano says if the trial works, the project could provide a blueprint for similar projects across the network.

“WP sees significant potential for long-term economic benefits in increasing the amount of decentralised energy generation located near the edges of the grid,” he says.

“It is costly to build and maintain the network to deliver power over long distances to small communities located a long way from where power is generated.

“The possibility of microgrids providing a lower cost alternative to replacing ageing network infrastructure is very exciting.”

The project is a partnership between WP and Carnegie Wave Energy.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK