Horizon Power expands solar management technology to Goldfields-Esperance region

New technology that will enable more regional WA residents to access rooftop solar has been rolled out in the Goldfields-Esperance region. Horizon Power’s Smart Connect Solar technology has been expanded to 20 regional towns including Wiluna, Hopetoun, Laverton, Leonora and Norseman, along with towns on the North West Interconnected System. The technology uses an energy management system to co-ordinate high levels of solar energy on the network and is part of a Statewide program launched in Carnarvon in Feburary. Horizon Power said the project would eliminate solar installation capacity constraints and enable customers to save on energy bills by harnessing solar power. The energy provider said it would also improve the safety and stability of WA’s electricity network. The technology works by analysing weather patterns to forecast energy generation and demand. “This innovative approach enables real-time orchestration of a customer’s solar generation, effectively mitigating the risk of voltage and frequency fluctuations that could destabilise the electricity system and cause supply disruptions,” Horizon Power said. Chief executive Stephanie Unwin said Horizon Power would deploy Smart Connect Solar to all towns in its service area by 2025. “Not only does Smart Connect Solar use cutting-edge technology, it will also be a key contributor to the State Government’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050,” Ms Unwin said. “Furthermore, it equips Horizon Power with the necessary technical capabilities to fulfil our commitment to ensuring zero customer refusals when connecting rooftop solar by 2025 across our networks.” Energy Minister Reece Whitby said the State Government was committed to delivering clean energy solutions for the regions. “Making renewable energy more accessible is critical for our environment and will assist WA in its goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050,” he said.