Challenger energy retailer Social Energy has begun its “global expansion”, launching to customers in Australia.
The company, which began operating in the UK last year, says it is offering consumers in the Southern Hemisphere a green energy package and a Duracell home solar battery system.
The West Yorkshire-based firm, which supplies 6,000 customers, uses its artificial intelligence platform and virtual power plant technology to optimise solar-connected battery storage.
It learns about a customer’s energy usage and makes decisions about how to store, manage and distribute the energy. It generates revenue for its users by helping maintain and balance electricity grids.
The company claims that for customers in Australia this will reduce electricity bills by as much as 100 per cent.
Customers who have solar panels, a battery and Social Energy installed at home will pay $12,000 (approx. £6600) for a 6.6kWp tier 1 solar installation and an 11.6kWh SolaX battery system, connected with a Social Energy Hub which responds to grid trading and frequency response demands.
Chris Parratt, managing director Australia, Social Energy, said: “We’re delighted to be rolling out Social Energy in Australia, as the financial and environmental impact for people here is huge.
“Our ground-breaking technology is a complete game changer for our users, making the combination of solar and battery storage offer better returns than solar on its own. It will support millions of homeowners in becoming more independent from the grid.
“Having been involved in some major steps forward in the Australian energy market, I’m extremely excited to be pioneering the next big leap – with an energy plan that finally makes batteries a sensible investment for Australian families.”
According to the company there are currently 2.5 million homes in Australia that have solar panels installed, with around 23,000 new installations each month.
Social Energy follows Ovo and Octopus Energy, both of which have expanded into the Australian market.
Octopus also has a presence in Germany and the United States. Bulb too has operations in the US, as well as in France.