Benalla Rural City Council is celebrating the successful delivery of the Community Battery at the Sir Edward ‘Weary’ Dunlop’ Learning Centre (Benalla Library) on Wednesday 22 July 2026.
The battery’s arrival marks the completion of the major on‑site works, with no further disruptions expected in the Library carpark.
The next stage of the project involves connecting the battery to the Library’s existing solar system. Once connected, the battery will begin storing excess solar energy generated during the day and releasing it when needed, improving energy efficiency and reducing reliance on the grid.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the project represents an important investment in Benalla’s sustainable future.
“It’s fantastic to see the Community Battery now in place at the Library. This project is a practical example of how we can support cleaner, smarter energy use right here in Benalla,” Cr Hearn said.
“Council is committed to exploring innovative ways to reduce emissions and strengthen our community’s resilience. The battery will help store solar energy generated at the Library and make better use of renewable power across the site.”
The Community Battery is expected to be fully operational in the coming months.
The project is 95 per cent funded by the Victorian Government through its 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program (Round 2), with Benalla Rural City Council contributing the remaining 5 per cent. The project is part of the broader Powering Resilience in the Regions initiative, led by the Central Victorian Greenhouse Alliance on behalf of 10 regional councils.