Neighborhood battery is still unprofitable.
In recent months, we have explored the possibility of realizing a neighborhood battery concurrently with the Wormerland battery park as an innovative way to store excess solar power for later use.
Consultancy firm QING, co-financed by Rabobank, researched the plan’s feasibility. The study focused on the operation, financial viability, and requirements for a neighborhood battery. We specifically looked at two scenarios. In the first scenario, we assume the storage of excess solar power. In the second scenario, we combine this with supplying electricity to a public charging station for electric cars.
Unfortunately, the research has revealed significant financial challenges that make the neighborhood battery project unviable at present. In the case of storing excess solar power, residents would need to contribute monthly to maintain the battery’s operation, primarily due to double taxation under current regulations. The second scenario, while theoretically feasible, is hindered by current national regulations and requires substantial organization for a minimal profit margin.
While the current findings are disappointing, it’s important to note the potential for a future turnaround. If key regulations, such as those concerning taxation, peer-to-peer energy selling, or net metering, were to change, the neighborhood battery project could become a viable and profitable option. The full report of the research is available on our website under the Wormerland battery park project.
