Caloundra households will soon have the ability to store the energy they generate during the day for use at night, helping to reduce both energy costs and emissions.

A “nation-leading” project to gradually transform Queensland’s regional grid into a series of tailored local renewable energy zones (LREZ) will launch in Caloundra, starting with the installation of community battery storage.

The Queensland Government has committed $80 million to the LREZ project across Caloundra and Townsville that will:

• boost renewable energy production
• improve grid stability
• ensure reliable energy supply for local communities.

According to the federal Department of Climate Change, Energy, Environment and Water (DCCEEW), who has kicked in an additional $21.2 million in funding under a Federation Funding Agreement, households could save up to $800 per year on electricity bills under the program.

DCCEEW has promised the project would provide the benefits of “shared solar” energy for all households – including those living in apartments, renters and low-income earners.

But energy drawn from solar panels can be significantly impacted by their condition.

Caloundra-based Fierce Solar Cleaning owner Tahnee Fiers said the difference between dirty and clean solar panels could equate to a 50 per cent energy cost saving.

“By the time we get a call for a solar clean, most homeowners have seen up to a 25 per cent reduction in their savings or increase in their electricity bill,” Ms Fiers said.

“Regular maintenance can ensure your savings stay where they belong, in your account.”

She said the build-up of dirt, dust and debris affected the efficiency of the solar panel and reduced their lifespan.

“And the longer you leave it, the more damage can be done to your panels’ cells and can erode their protective coating,” she said.

“A common misconception is that “rain washes the solar panels clean”, but does rainfall wash your car clean when it’s open to the elements and the bird droppings or debris? No.

“Neglecting them and allowing bird droppings, lichen, mould, dirt and debris to remain on the panels and be caked in by the sun only drops their value in terms of savings and lifespan.”