Pomonal Community Hall Battery Project Successfully Completed
Battery installation works at Pomonal Community Hall have now been successfully completed this week, marking an important milestone in strengthening local energy resilience for the Pomonal community.
The project, valued at $123,176, has delivered a community-scale battery system designed to store locally generated solar energy and provide backup power during outages, including bushfire outages. The system is now fully operational and ready to support the hall as a key gathering place during emergencies and community events.
Delivered in partnership with Indigo Power and supported through the Victorian Government’s 100 Neighbourhood Batteries program, the project forms part of a broader initiative led by the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance in collaboration with councils across regional Victoria.
The installed system includes a 24kW/64kWh battery integrated with the existing 10kW solar PV system, providing up to two days of backup power to the Pomonal Community Hall when needed.
Ararat Rural City Council CEO Dr Tim Harrison said the project demonstrates the value of collaboration in delivering outcomes for regional communities. “This project is a strong example of what can be achieved when local government, community partners, and industry work together with a clear focus,” Dr Harrison said. “Ensuring the Pomonal Community Hall can remain operational during power outages supports both immediate community safety and longer-term recovery, and reflects Council’s commitment to practical, community-focused infrastructure.”
Indigo Power led the detailed design and installation of the battery system following earlier planning and community engagement. The system is expected to reduce reliance on the broader electricity network and improve energy security, particularly during extreme weather and bushfire events.
The Pomonal Community Hall Battery Project supports Council’s broader work to enhance community infrastructure, improve local preparedness, and support more sustainable energy solutions across Ararat Rural City.
