Improving water use in industry can lower water consumption and offer many environmental and social benefits.
Changes in behaviour, daily operations, and technology can all help make industrial processes more water-efficient. But how to increase water efficiency in manufacturing?
Significant improvements can come from better leak detection and repair in pipes and from using newer, more efficient technologies, such as improved pipes, smart systems, timers, high-efficiency cleaning systems, and water monitoring tools.
Raising awareness and changing habits among workers can also help reduce water use. On the regulatory side, setting water tariffs can encourage companies to save water.
Reusing and recycling water within the industry also boosts efficiency by providing a freshwater source without needing new supplies from outside, which cuts costs, saves energy, and lessens the burden on natural freshwater sources.
What is Water Efficiency?
Water efficiency refers to long-term water reduction, often by eliminating water waste. It also releases lower amounts of toxic emissions into wastewater, typically in waterways, potentially harming marine life and vegetation.
It also means using less water to do the same tasks or get the same results. It’s about reducing waste and making the most out of the water we use.
By being more efficient, we can save water, lower costs, and reduce the strain on natural water sources, which is good for the environment. Examples include fixing leaks, using water-saving devices, and reusing water when possible.
Understanding Water Usage
Reducing water use at home is an easy way to lower your water and energy bills and help the environment.
Even in areas without water shortages, saving water means we don’t need to build new dams, take extra water from rivers, or treat as much wastewater. This also saves energy required for treating and moving water, which helps lower greenhouse gas emissions.
How much water your home uses depends on the number of people and the size of your garden.
However, most households can cut down on water use without much expense. Many water providers have online tools to help you see if you’re using water efficiently.
Why Water Efficiency Matters in Industry
Water is essential for many industrial activities, and using it efficiently helps protect the environment and support long-term economic success.
By improving water efficiency, companies can reduce their water and lessen the demand for local water sources. This helps protect natural ecosystems and ensures enough water for future needs.
Many industrial processes, like cooling, cleaning, and production, use much water. However, some companies don’t prioritise water efficiency, leading to wasted water and worsening water scarcity issues, which can harm their operations and reputation.
Understanding How Water is Used in Industry
Companies need to understand where and how they use water in their operations to use water more efficiently. This helps them spot areas for improvement and take specific actions to reduce waste.
Industrial water use can be divided into two main types: direct and indirect. Direct water use is directly used in production, such as in cooling towers, boilers, and cleaning equipment.
Indirect water use includes water for other purposes, such as sanitation, landscaping, and employee facilities.
By examining how and where water is used, companies can identify ways to save water and create effective water-saving plans based on data.
How to Increase Water Efficiency in the Manufacturing Industry?
Here’s how the manufacturing industry in Australia can increase water efficiency:
Fix Leaks and Maintain Equipment: Regularly check for leaks in pipes, taps, and machines. Fixing leaks quickly saves a lot of water over time.
Install Water-Saving Devices: Use low-flow taps, high-efficiency washers, and smart water meters. These help reduce water use without affecting operations.
Recycle and Reuse Water: Use treated water from one part of the process in another area, like reusing rinse water for cleaning floors. This reduces the need for fresh water.
Upgrade to Water-Efficient Equipment: Switch to newer equipment that uses less water, such as advanced cooling systems or water-efficient washers.
Educate Employees: Train workers on saving water and show them ways to avoid waste. Small changes in habits can make a big difference.
Use Smart Monitoring Systems: Install sensors and tracking systems that monitor water use in real-time. This helps detect leaks and identify areas where water is being wasted.
Optimise Cleaning Processes: Try using dry or air-cleaning methods when possible. When water is needed, consider high-pressure systems that use less water.
Partner with Water Efficiency Programs: Work with local water-saving initiatives and programs in Australia. Many offer resources, grants, or advice on saving water.
By following these steps, manufacturers in Australia can save water, cut costs, and help protect the environment.
Properly Optimising Water Efficiency In Industrial Operations| Improving Water Efficiency in Manufacturing
To properly optimise water efficiency in industrial operations, it is essential to start by evaluating all the water sources and uses within the facility. Conduct a water audit to clearly understand where water is being used and where it may be wasted.
This audit will help identify high-usage areas and leaks so you know where to focus your efforts.
Upgrading outdated equipment is also essential for efficient water use. Old machines often require more water, so consider switching to newer, water-saving models where possible.
Equipment that uses minimal water, like modern cooling systems or efficient boilers, can make a big difference.
Industrial operations can also benefit from closed-loop systems, where water is reused multiple times within the same process before being discarded. This setup reduces the need for fresh water and lowers costs.
Recycling water within the facility rather than relying on continuous fresh water reduces water bills and environmental impact.
Training staff to follow water-saving practices encourages workers to report any water issues they notice, such as leaks or unusual water use. Teach them efficient ways to handle water-based tasks, like using only the water required for cleaning or production.
Finally, set measurable water-use goals and track your progress over time. This can involve setting limits on daily or monthly water usage and conducting regular reviews to assess whether targets are being met.
Water Efficiency Tips| How Low-Flow Fixtures Can Reduce Water Consumption?
Saving water at home is easier now, thanks to low-flow fixtures. Special taps, shower heads, and toilets are made to use less water but still work effectively.
Here are ten easy ways to use low-flow fixtures in your home to save water and cut costs, which is essential as Australia often faces droughts and high water prices.
Switch to Low-Flow Taps:
Add Faucet Aerators:
Use a Low-Flow Washing Machine:
Fix Leaky Taps and Pipes:
Add Flow Regulators:
Use Water-Efficient Fixtures for Outdoors:
Efficient Cleaning Fixtures:
Smart Metering and Monitoring Systems:
Employee Awareness and Training:
Training employees on the importance of water efficiency and proper use of low-flow fixtures ensures they are mindful of reducing water waste. Turning off taps promptly and reporting leaks can maximise the benefits of low-flow systems.
These small changes with low-flow fixtures can significantly reduce water use, saving you money and benefiting the environment. Making a few adjustments at home helps with water conservation efforts across Australia.
Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme (WELS)
The national Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme informs consumers about the water efficiency of various products. By choosing water-efficient products, Australians could save up to $175 per household annually.
A Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards star rating label shows a water efficiency rating out of six stars.
It also shows the water consumption in litres per wash and identifies that the appliance has been tested by Standard AS/NZS 6400.
The appliance’s model and load capacity are also identified. A WELS star rating label indicates water efficiency for consumers.
Click here: 10 Easy Ways to Save Water With Low-flow Fixtures to learn more about this. Also, you can talk to an expert for any questions you have.
Your Solution Is Just a Click Away
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https://cyanergy.com.au/blog/how-to-increase-water-efficiency-in-manufacturing/
ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance
Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:
“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.
“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action.
“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”
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ABOUT ACORE
For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.
Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org
The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.
https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/
Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff.
Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes!
These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems.
Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.
But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia?
Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.
There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective.
In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.
In this blog post:
Why You Need Battery Storage Now?
According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.
Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage.
Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.
Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day.
Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.
Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.
What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?
Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar.
Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint.
But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there!
The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.
A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.
Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery:
- Energy Independence
- Maximized Savings
- Better Return on Investment ROI
- Lower Carbon Footprint
- Peace of Mind
Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the Australian energy market.
Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability.
Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates?
Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.
Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%.
These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.
Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.
Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind.
What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?
While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone.
Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.
Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question.
With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.
So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things:
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Your Daily Energy Usage
Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day.
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Your Solar System Output
How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting.
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Your Nighttime Power Usage
A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid.
Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!
- For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.
- For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.
- Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.
- For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.
Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!
Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies!
- For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable.
- For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough.
- Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system.
- For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh.
Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!
How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?
Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.
However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here.
Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system.
Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.
These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage.
Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance
It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.
So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process.
Benefits of Solar Battery Storage
- Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining.
- You don’t have to care about power outages anymore
- In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source
- Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak
- During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun.
- Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source.
Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system:
- Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.
- Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk.
Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage
- One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents.
- Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments.
- Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime.
- While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time.
- Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.
Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!
You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.
First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.
A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.
Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.
Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.
Takeaway Thoughts
Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.
With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most.
By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030.
It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia.
Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?
Contact us today for any of your solar needs. We’d be happy to assist!
Your Solution Is Just a Click Away
The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.
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