Latest news with #JohnGrimes
The Guardian
16-05-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
Everything you need to know about Australia's new home battery subsidy
It's not an overstatement to say Australians love solar power. Without batteries, though, households have struggled to take full advantage of their rooftop systems. Either they don't capture all the energy produced during the day or they lose their power when the grid goes down. Now the Australian government is looking to fix that with its cheaper home batteries program, which will come into effect from 1 July. Here's everything you need to know. The $2.3bn plan will subsidise the installation of small batteries for households, businesses and community facilities. It will be available to households with existing systems and those looking to get solar, and will not be means tested. The scheme is modelled on the subsidy used to encourage the introduction of rooftop solar and will similarly be phased out over the next decade. Households aren't expected to feel this change because the price of a home battery is expected to drop sharply, as happened with solar. The Smart Energy Council's chief executive, John Grimes, says those looking to install a home battery will get a discount of at least 30% on the retail and installation cost – though this is a 'rule of thumb'. 'There's actually a dollar figure attached to this, so it could be more,' Grimes says. 'The way the rebate is structured is that it's a one-time deal, whether you buy a small battery or big battery, but the rebate is larger for a bigger battery.' The discount will apply to batteries up to 50kWh; someone buying a 100kWh battery will still get the subsidy on the first half of their installed capacity. Tristan Edis from Green Energy Markets says there are two main problems the government is working to solve. The first is that Australians generate heaps of power during the day but there is no way to store for use at other times. The other is that even though the technology is developing fast, the cost of batteries has not come down as manufacturers have not prioritised the residential market. This policy seeks to address both and, long-term, it will enable a phase-out of oil, gas and coal in the power grid. 'First and foremost, it will reduce household power bills, not just for the person installing the battery but other consumers,' Edis says. 'In the longer term it's also reducing the revenue that a coal or gas generator is able to capture over a full 24-hour period. That will bring forward the date at which they are likely to close.' Emissions reductions aside, this will save you money. Grimes describes a battery as acting like a rainwater tank: if you have a solar system, you can bank power generated during the day when it is free and use it at night when it would be more expensive. According to Labor's modelling, this will knock $1,100 extra off household power bills each year, or $2,300 a year for those with newer systems – but this is a guide and may vary based on your circumstances. Now, effectively. The subsidy comes into effect from 1 Julybut Grimes says many installers are able to set up a system tomorrow but only turn it on after the start date to ensure you get the discount. The Smart Energy Council surveyed 9,500 energy users and found a 5kWh to 6kWh battery will cover nine out of 10 households. The price for a battery that size ranges from $5,000 to $9,000 – though there could be other costs if an older solar system needs a retrofit to accommodate a battery. Getting an entirely new solar array and battery setup is much pricier, with systems starting well above $15,000. Some companies will charge $26,000 before subsidies for large 'future-proofed' systems. Remember, your power bills will be near zero for the lifetime of the system and you will not be paying for fuel if paired with an electric vehicle. State subsidies are also available to further reduce the price on top of the federal rebate. For some people, a smaller battery will suit their needs but a bigger one may be a good idea to take full advantage of the subsidy. Every home is different and how much capacity you may need comes down to questions such as: are you on the grid? Is your region prone to blackouts or other natural disasters? What stage of life are you in? Do you work from home? Do you work nights or from nine to five? Do you drive an EV? Does that EV have vehicle-to-grid capacity? If it does, will it be parked most of the day at work when your solar array is producing the bulk of its free power? And, ultimately: what can you afford right now? There are lots of numbers involved when it comes to the 77 different battery systems on the Australian market. It is also possible a rush in demand will prompt a number of fly-by-night operators to appear, so it is strongly advised to do your research on the company and the system it is offering, and to ask around for the best deal.
Daily Mail
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Eurovision stars unrecognisable as they secretly go undercover backstage at this year's contest
Avid Eurovision fans were left shocked when they discovered an iconic duo secretly undercover backstage ahead of the highly anticipated final. Unrecognisable behind their baggy outfits, beards and wigs, the pair are identical Irish twins John and Edward Grimes, better known as Jedward, who skyrocketed to fame after appearing in the sixth series of The X Factor in 2009. The 33-year-old pop icons later went on to represent Ireland at Eurovision in both 2011 and 2012. In 2011, Jedward finished in eighth place, earning 119 points, with their song Lipstick, followed by a 19th place finish in 2012 that saw them gain 46 points for their song Waterline. Now, as the countdown is on for Eurovision's Saturday-night final, the duo have been pictured in disguise, surprising two superfans backstage on set in Basel, Switzerland. Wearing prosthetic noses, fake beards and wigs, the pair were a world away from their usual well-known appearance of bleach blonde quiffs and sparkly outfits. In an Instagram video that shares the 'most iconic transformation ever', Edward, sat in a makeup chair, declares: 'Next time you see us we won't be Jedward, but we will be somebody'. As the countdown is on for Eurovision's Saturday-night final, the pop duo have been pictured in disguise. surprising two superfans backstage on set in Basel, Switzerland. He then turns to Edward, in the process of getting his prosthetic nose fitted, and asks: 'Do you think these superfans are going to know it's us?' The two fans that Jedward were hoping to fool appeared not to catch on that their favourite pop stars were disguised as members of staff backstage, with one of the band members, fitted with a headset, even jokingly asking a fan for their phone as they had been taking pictures. Later on, the pair could barely contain their shock as the Irish duo later removed their wigs to reveal their famous bright blonde hair. Taking to Instagram to reflect on the unique experience, one of the surprised fans commented: 'This was hilarious, you really got us' while the other remarked: 'I was THIS close to giving him my phone, he as that convincincing'. Other social media users appeared just as amazed by the incredible disguise, with one commenter praising the 'amazing transformation', adding: 'Genuinely would never know it was you!! New metal band coming soon'. Meanwhile, another said: 'This is hilarious! What a great surprise it turned out to be you!' The Eurovision final is set to air at on BBC1 this Saturday, with the remaining semi-final contest taking place this evening as the remaining nations vie for a place in the prestigious finale. Featuring performances from the UK's entry Remember Monday, alongside contestants from Austria, France, Israel and Australia, it will be hosted by Rylan and Scott Mills. Despite backlash surrounding Israel's inclusion in the competition, Yuval Raphael, 24, is set to represent the nation with her song New Day Will Rise at this year's contest, having survived the horrific October 7 attacks just 18 months ago. Girl group Remember Monday, made up of best friends Lauren Byrne, Charlotte Steele and Holly-Anne Hull, are set to perform their song 'What The Hell Just Happened?' and will be hoping to do better than last year's UK entrant Olly Alexander who sadly received zero points from the public during the 2023 final with his song Dizzy. When previously asked what his advice to the next Eurovision entrant would be, Olly said ' Get a good therapist '. As last year's winners, Switzerland are guaranteed a spot in the Grand Final, alongside Italy, Spain, the UK, France and Germany, who all make up the 'Big Five' countries. On Tuesday, the first Eurovision semi-final took place, with 10 countries: Sweden, Norway, Albania, Iceland, Netherlands, Poland, San Marino, Estonia, Portugal and Ukraine, all qualifying. The show was dramatic as ever, featuring a stage invader, a broadcasting malfunction, alongside a wholesome appearance from Eurovision icon Celine Dion, 57. However, fans were left dismayed after Cyprus and Belgium were booted out of the competition, taking to X to share their dismay. One upset Belgium fan said: 'I try to be as objective as possible, but I genuinely can't find a single reason for why Belgium didn't qualify!?!?!?!?' 'NO WAY IS THIS A EUROVISION NON QUALIFIER???? JUSTICE FOR BELGIUM #Eurovision.' At the end of the show, Celine Dion left fans in floods of tears as she made a rare appearance via video call. The singer famously won the contest for Switzerland in 1988 with the winning number Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi. Making an emotional return to the song contest, Celine shared some advice ahead of the anticipated final, seemingly ruling out an appearance in this year's final after speculation she would be performing amid her battle with stiff person syndrome. She said: 'I'd love nothing more than to be with you. Switzerland will forever hold a special place in my heart. 'It's the country that believed in me and gave me the chance to be part of something so extraordinary. 'Winning the Eurovision Song Contest for Switzerland in 1988, it was a life-changing moment for me and I'm so thankful for everyone who supported me. 'Now, 37 years later, I know. It's so beautiful and emotional to see Switzerland winning and hosting this incredible event once again. 'To the people of Switzerland, thank you for your love. This night is yours and I hope you feel as proud as I do.'
The Sun
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Eurovision legends look unrecognisable as they go backstage at contest – can you tell who they are?
EUROVISION fans will be left doing a double take when they find out who these legends are. The pop duo have been captured on camera heading backstage at this year's event and they are barely recognisable. 5 5 The lads in question are Irish twins Jedward, who found fame on The X Factor in 2009. John and Edward Grimes went on to represent Ireland twice at Eurovision, making history. Jedward have now been pictured in disguise while backstage at this year's Eurovision, which is being held in Basel, Switzerland. The brothers donned wigs, prosthetic noses and fake beards, and dressed in grungy clothes - which is world's away from their usual pop star threads. One even added a fake lip ring and their iconic blonde quiffs were nowhere to be seen. Sharing a snap on Jedward's Instagram account, they said: "Can't believe we got to be in disguise at Eurovision. "New hair, noses, hairy beards and lip piercing. No one had a clue it was us. Felt normal for once. It was a crazy experience." The lads also shared a video of themselves as they got into their disguises. Jedward's stunt was all part of a ploy to surprise two Jedward superfans, who had won a trip to the Eurovision set in Basel. They were surprised by John and Edward while being given a tour. Rylan makes VERY awkward gaffe during first live Eurovision semi-final Jedward remarked on Instagram: "The most iconic transformation ever." John and Edward were dubbed Louis Walsh 's 'joke' act when he put them through on The X Factor 16 years ago. But he had the last laugh. Jedward went on to make history when they represented Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest in both 2011 and 2012. In 2011, they finished in eighth place with their song Lipstick. It earned them 119 points. The following year they didn't fare so well, finishing in 19th place with 46 points for Waterline. The Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final 2025 will air on BBC One on Saturday night. Representing the UK this year is Remember Monday. The trio is made up of best friends Charlotte, Holly and Lauren and they will be performing their song What The Hell Just Happened?. Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final 2025, 8pm, BBC One, Saturday May 17 5 5 5
ABC News
06-05-2025
- Business
- ABC News
Labor's home battery subsidy kicks off 'strong demand'. Here's what you need to know
Slashing the price for home batteries was one of Labor's flagship policies during the election campaign. With the election now in the review mirror after an overwhelming win for the Albanese government, many Australians want to know more about the Cheaper Home Batteries Program. We unpack how much it can save, when it starts, and how it can benefit Australians with and without solar systems on their rooftops. What's in Labor's home battery subsidy? Labor's $2.3 billion program applies to people with existing solar, or for those wanting to invest in a new solar-plus-battery set-up. It won't be means-tested and offers a 30 per cent discount on batteries for households, businesses and community facilities like sports centres or town halls. The scheme is being directly funded by the Federal Government, and will be delivered through the existing Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme, which has been providing similar subsidies on solar for Australians since 2011 and is credited with driving the country's early uptake of rooftop solar. The scheme provides incentives to purchase renewable energy systems like rooftop solar. ( ABC News ) "I think that this scheme is going to change Australia," said the CEO of the Smart Energy Council, John Grimes. "If you deploy one solar panel or one rooftop solar system, it doesn't mean very much, but we've now deployed over 4 million rooftop solar systems. "Combined, they have a greater energy generation than the entire coal-fired power fleet in Australia. " We're going the next step and we're actually unlocking that and making it dispatchable so you can actually use it when you need the electricity. " According to Labor's modelling, households with existing rooftop solar could save up to $1,100 extra off their power bill every year, and up to $2,300 a year for those with new solar, about 90 per cent of a typical bill. The discounts are based on the size of the battery and will apply for up to 50 kilowatt-hours. When can I get a discounted battery? Today! That's the short theoretical answer. The scheme officially kicks in at the start of the financial year, July 1, but it's designed so batteries can be purchased and installed now and are eligible when they are "switched on" in the new financial year. Photo shows A man's hand near a solar battery in a house. WA's Labor promise to introduce a $5,000 subsidy for residential batteries if re-elected has been welcomed in principle but it has thrown the industry into turmoil. This avoids a situation like in New South Wales and Western Australia where recent battery subsidies were introduced with a long lag between their announcement and start-date, leading to people delaying their purchases and causing frustrations in the industry. The national battery scheme can be used in addition to those state discounts, leading to even bigger savings for households in those states. The CEO of the Smart Energy Council said he knows businesses already selling batteries based on the scheme. "One of our contractors actually runs a small solar business in rural New South Wales. He sold three batteries on the weekend alone," Mr Grimes said. " I think that the demand for this has been unbelievably strong. It's been unprecedented. " What are the benefits of getting a battery? Batteries help maximise Australia's solar energy, with the country having the highest rate of rooftop solar in the world. In Queensland and Western Australia, every second home on average has solar. Australia is now in the situation where we have abundant solar power in the middle of the day, and homes with solar don't need any power from the grid and are instead sending their excess into the system. Batteries can help making the most of the solar power households produce. ( Supplied: Halfpoint ) But when solar production drops off in the evening, just as people return home, the electricity grid has a sudden spike in demand. Solar households with a battery can charge it when they are producing more power than they need, and then use that solar power later in the evening, thereby reducing the amount of power being used from the grid at crunch times in the evening. Think of it as time-shifting solar power from the daytime to the evening. "It's like putting a rainwater tank on your house to capture water and then have it on tap when you need to drink," Mr Grimes said. Using that stored solar power also saves on power bills. What size battery do I need? Obviously, every home is different and energy needs vary, but the Smart Energy Council crunched the numbers recently on household power usage and came up with this conclusion: the battery you need to lower bills is smaller, and therefore cheaper, than you might think. It found that to avoid using power during that evening peak, over 90 per cent of households could get by with a battery as small as 6 or 7 kilowatt-hours. That's smaller than the average battery installation, with two of the most popular batteries in Australia being around 13 kilowatt-hours. Mr Grimes cautions people to consider what suits them best. "You get one chance to apply for and receive the rebate for your house. And so, really, people should be thinking about getting the biggest solar battery they can afford," he said " But the converse of that is, a small battery is better than no battery at all. " Batteries are usually "stackable" meaning additional capacity can be added at a later date but the rebate won't apply. In terms of size, the intention isn't to go completely off-grid with a battery-and-solar system; instead, it's about maximising how much of your own rooftop solar you can use throughout the day, reducing reliance on the grid and also thereby also reducing power bills. However, if there's a blackout, homes can use their battery to keep the power going without disruptions, and in the event of a multi-day outage, like the recent ex-tropical cyclone Alfred, can keep the lights on for days. How much does a battery cost? Some of the most popular batteries currently in Australia, from BYD and Tesla, are both about 13 kilowatt-hours and cost roughly $12,000 and $14,000 installed, before any subsidies. At the launch of the policy, Labor said the average saving would be $4,000 off a typical household battery. Remember, other state subsidies could reduce the costs further. The economic case for getting a battery will change for each household depending on their typical power consumption and solar production, so it's important to work out if a battery makes financial sense in your situation. Household batteries are the same technology as electric car batteries, so the unprecedented growth in electric cars is also driving down costs. "The competition in the market is really fierce. That's a good sign for consumers because it means there'll be a race to the top in terms of quality … it produces competitive pressure in terms of price," Mr Grimes said. How do batteries help the grid? One of the caveats for the battery rebate is that they have to be compatible with virtual power plants, or VPPs. VPPs work by coordinating household batteries and how they interact with the grid as a whole. For example, if there's a threat of a blackout, batteries could be instructed to push power into the grid to stabilise it. Photo shows Pippa Buchanan shows the battery that lives in her shed. Experts believe virtual power plants could play a vital part in our future energy system. Under the scheme, the batteries won't be connected to any VPP scheme but will just be required to have the technical capability to be integrated into one at any future date. Marnie Shaw is an associate professor at the Australian National University's school of engineering and her research focus is energy storage. She believes having some control over household batteries is a huge opportunity. "If we are able to coordinate our household batteries and our electric vehicles, it means that we'll require many fewer grid upgrades. And so that can potentially save us billions. "We need to have smart control of our energy resources to result in a lower-cost future grid." Ms Shaw says more batteries will help displace coal from the grid entirely, reducing Australia's overall emissions. What if I can't get a battery? This scheme is great if you are one of the lucky Australians who own a home and can afford a battery. There have been frustrations that renters and low-income home owners are missing out, and the Greens campaigned on a household solar and battery package for these groups. Ms Shaw says the government funded a number of community batteries during the last election that help out all households. Photo shows A chart shows the breakdown of energy generation over the course of a day, including coal, gas and renewables Our energy system is evolving at breakneck speed. Here we look at how our power grid works, what more renewables mean for energy prices, how nuclear fits into the picture, and how we might build a grid fit for the future. "Those [community] batteries are important because they provide more equitable energy storage. You don't have to have your own house, you don't have to be a house-owner to participate in a community battery scheme," he said. There's also been significant investment in grid-scale batteries, and Ms Shaw says household batteries were the missing piece. "It's got to the point now with grid-scale batteries that they no longer need government subsidy. So it makes sense now that the government is shifting the priority to look at different scales of storage." But even homes without a battery will still benefit from more of them around the country. The electricity system works as a market, so when power demand spikes in the evening, the wholesale cost of power is driven up. If more Australian homes have batteries, they won't be drawing power from the grid at those critical moments, leading to lower peak prices across the entire market. The Smart Energy Council modelled what would happen to peak power prices if there were 1 million batteries installed in Australia, and found that it would save $1.3 billion every year on wholesale power prices. Plus, the electricity system is built to have capacity for those peak moments so lowering peaks means that less investment is needed for those maximums. Battery boom by 2030 Labor is expecting to hit over 1 million new batteries installed under the scheme by 2030, a huge boost from the current estimate of 320,000, according to the solar consultancy Sunwiz. While it's an exciting opportunity for many home owners, there isn't much time between the election and the official start of the scheme, which concerns some in the industry. Mr Grimes says there are still details that need to be worked out and won't happen until the relevant minister — likely Chris Bowen, continuing as energy minister — is sworn in to cabinet. "This is an area of concern and needs to be an area of genuine focus," Mr Grimes said, urging people and the industry not to get too impatient. He said while details may not be clear for a couple of weeks, it was important the government nutted them out quickly to avoid flow-on effects on the market and business. But overall, Mr Grimes was bullish about the impact the battery policy would have. "Not only will it change Australia, but I think this program will actually change the world because the world will see what's possible when you unleash distributed renewable energy, empower individuals who are making their own investment, but actually help them get over the line to do that," he said. " Then this is a model for how we should think about energy across the whole world. " This might sound hyperbolic, but Australia's solar rollout leads the world and has driven prices significantly lower than in other countries.
