Using the Wainuiomata papakāinga development, we will model the practicalities of a small solar micro-grid of independent households sharing one network connection to the national electrical grid. The model will be based on semi-mature technologies of roof-top solar and on-site storage. Along with this model, we will assess practical protocols for energy sharing among the households to maximise appropriate on-site usage and storage, and an equitable billing regime for households of different sizes and demographics.
We will build an in-depth knowledge of the processes required to implement a community micro-grid and the parties and relationships involved. Using this approach we will identify where the tensions lie between optimising outcomes at the level of the national (grid), local network, community level, and household member (health). With this information we will examine benefits, opportunities and risks for renewable energy (RE) generation, use and conservation.
Project lead Mark Apperley