Federal $1m funding for two SA hydro energy storage projects to be unveiled in Adelaide

ELECTRICITY customers to avoid lengthy delays in getting a new or replacement smart meter.

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FEASIBILITY studies into two pumped hydro energy storage projects will receive $1 million in funding, federal Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg will announce in Adelaide on Wednesday.

Returning to the scene of his infamous clash over energy policy with Premier Jay Weatherill last year, the minister said the projects were designed to strengthen the SA system “and deliver more affordable and reliable power for SA families and businesses”.

“SA is facing a significant transition issue which is implicating both system security and electricity pricing,” Mr Frydenberg said.

Federal Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg announce the plan on Wednesday.

“That’s why we’re investing in projects such as these, because the SA Government failed to take energy storage needs into account all the while pursuing a reckless 50 per cent renewable energy target.”

Energy Australia would receive $500,000 for the next stage of a feasibility study into the Cultana seawater project that could power more than 126,000 home batteries at a third of the cost.

The Turnbull Government, through the Australian Renewable Energy Agency, already provided $453,000 for an initial feasibility study.

A further $500,000 would be provided to Zen Energy and SIMEC Mining for phase one of a feasibility study into a project at the former Iron Duchess North mine in the South Middleback Ranges, near Whyalla.

Mr Frydenberg is now pushing for a change to the national grid rules that would mean electricity customers could avoid delays in getting a new or replacement smart meter.

He has asked the Australian Energy Market Commission to introduce maximum time frames for meter installations that retailers must meet.

Since responsibility for installing meters had shifted from network companies to retailers, some customers in SA had faced lengthy waiting times.

The meters help customers monitor usage and adjust usage to save money.