Home and Car Power to Energise Fresh National Grid Plan

Power flowing between smarter homes, cars, and businesses under a new national plan could slash bills and reduce the need for network upgrades or new power plants. Controlling two-way power flows from rooftop solar and battery systems and the nation’s growing fleet of electric vehicles is at the heart of a consumer-owned energy road map agreed by energy and climate change ministers on July 19. Ministers also endorsed a work plan to improve the energy efficiency of appliances and homes, potentially extending the benefits of the energy transition to renters and those unable to afford new cars. The package of reforms would help address longstanding problems in the energy market that affect many consumers, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances or financial distress, according to Energy Consumers Australia....