Energy back-up system for Blackwood

Published on 13 November 2023

Council is very pleased to receive confirmation from the Victorian Government that construction has begun on an energy back-up system at Blackwood Mineral Springs Caravan Park, which can be used during an emergency event, such as a fire or storms.

The system has been funded under the Government’s Energy Resilience Systems program, which will fund solar panels, batteries and back-up generators to 23 community buildings located in areas at high risk of bushfire or storm activity.

Moorabool Shire Mayor Cr Ally Munari said it was pleasing Blackwood was one of the 23 areas, as the town could benefit from the energy back-up hub if an emergency situation was to arise.

“Blackwood was identified as a priority town as it was without power for seven days during the June 2021 storms,” Cr Munari said.

“This energy back-up system would have been invaluable then, and if we’re ever in the unfortunate situation that Blackwood experiences a similar event again, having a power source if power goes out will make a big difference to Blackwood residents.

“There was quite a long process to go through between the Government, power companies, Council, Committees of Management, landowners and the CFA to get to the stage of construction, so I thank everyone involved in the process for making this happen.”   

For more information on the Energy Resilience Systems program go to energy.vic.gov.au/renewable-energy/microgrids