Hardwick Microgrid System
Hardwick’s has been operating in Kyneton for over forty years. In 2019, Hardwick’s installed a microgrid system using 2.5 megawatts of field-mounted solar panels and a 2-megawatt battery.
The system cuts their power costs by 60 per cent and their greenhouse gas emissions by over 30 per cent.
The system also allows Hardwick’s to be less reliant on the energy grid, giving them more control of their power supply. The company is already averaging at least one power outage every year, and in a changing climate, this is expected to increase.
The microgrid system aims to keep Hardwick’s refrigerators going during these power disruptions, protecting millions of dollars of meat products.
Hardwick’s microgrid investment secures their business against current and future climate risk of increasing extreme weather events and moves their business towards a net-zero emissions future.
Objectives
We acknowledge and respect Victorian Traditional Owners as the original custodians of Victoria’s land and waters, their unique ability to care for Country and deep spiritual connection to it. We honour Elders past and present whose knowledge and wisdom has ensured the continuation of culture and traditional practices. We are committed to enabling self-determination for all Aboriginal people and aim to work closely with the Aboriginal community to drive action and improve outcomes especially in the context of a changing climate.