Introduction Sustainable Energy and Social Entrepreneurship
The integration of sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship has emerged as a powerful force in driving community development.
In an era of increasing environmental consciousness and social responsibility, this combination offers innovative solutions to address energy poverty, foster economic empowerment, and create sustainable livelihoods.
This article explores the intersection of sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship, highlighting how these two forces are working hand in hand to bring about positive change and improve the lives of communities worldwide.
Understanding Sustainable Energy and Social Entrepreneurship
Sustainable energy refers to energy sources that are renewable, clean, and have a minimal impact on the environment. It includes solar power, wind energy, hydroelectricity, geothermal energy, and bioenergy. These sources provide an alternative to fossil fuels, offering long-term solutions for combating climate change and achieving energy security.
Social entrepreneurship, on the other hand, involves the application of entrepreneurial principles and business strategies to address social and environmental challenges. Social entrepreneurs are driven by a mission to create positive change, focusing on generating social, environmental, and economic value. They seek innovative ways to solve pressing societal issues and empower marginalized communities.
The Role of Sustainable Energy in Community Development
Access to sustainable energy is a fundamental catalyst for community development.
Here are some key ways in which sustainable energy contributes to community growth:
1. Energy access and affordability: Sustainable energy solutions such as solar power can provide off-grid communities with access to electricity. This enables households, schools, and healthcare facilities to operate efficiently and enhances overall quality of life. Moreover, by reducing reliance on expensive and polluting energy sources, sustainable energy can help lower energy costs and alleviate energy poverty.
2. Job creation and economic empowerment: The development and deployment of sustainable energy technologies require a skilled workforce. This creates employment opportunities and economic growth within communities. Social enterprises focused on sustainable energy often prioritize local hiring and capacity-building initiatives, empowering individuals and communities with valuable skills and income-generating opportunities.
3. Environmental sustainability: Sustainable energy sources help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, combat climate change, and improve air quality. By promoting sustainable practices, communities can protect their natural resources and create a healthier living environment for current and future generations.
4. Resilience and self-sufficiency: Sustainable energy solutions, particularly decentralized systems like solar microgrids, enhance community resilience during natural disasters and energy disruptions. By generating their own clean energy, communities can become less dependent on centralized grids and gain greater control over their energy supply, ensuring uninterrupted access during challenging times.
Social Entrepreneurship for Community Development
Social entrepreneurship plays a vital role in leveraging sustainable energy solutions for community development.
Here’s how social entrepreneurship contributes to positive change:
1. Innovation and local solutions: Social entrepreneurs often pioneer innovative approaches to sustainable energy, adapting technologies to suit the specific needs and conditions of communities. They bridge the gap between technological advancements and community requirements, ensuring that solutions are practical, affordable, and culturally relevant.
2. Collaboration and partnerships: Social entrepreneurs collaborate with various stakeholders, including local communities, nonprofits, government agencies, and private sector entities, to leverage resources, knowledge, and expertise. These partnerships help create comprehensive and holistic solutions that address community needs effectively.
3. Empowerment and capacity-building: Social entrepreneurship emphasizes community engagement and participation, empowering individuals to become active agents of change. Through training, education, and skill development, social entrepreneurs enable communities to take ownership of sustainable energy projects and drive their own development.
4. Sustainable business models: Social enterprises combine their social and environmental missions with viable business models, ensuring the long-term sustainability of their initiatives. By generating income and reinvesting in community development, social entrepreneurs create self-sustaining solutions that have a lasting impact.
Leading Examples of Sustainable Energy and Social Entrepreneurship
Numerous social enterprises have emerged as inspiring examples of sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship for community development.
Here are a few notable ones:
1. SELCO Foundation (India): SELCO Foundation, based in India, focuses on providing sustainable energy solutions to underserved communities. They work closely with local entrepreneurs and stakeholders to develop and deploy innovative solar technologies that address specific community needs. SELCO Foundation also offers training and capacity-building programs to empower individuals and promote entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector.
2. Solar Sister (Africa): Solar Sister is a social enterprise operating in several countries across Africa. They empower women entrepreneurs by equipping them with the necessary tools, training, and support to sell clean energy products, such as solar lanterns and energy-efficient cookstoves, within their communities. By leveraging social networks and creating income-generating opportunities, Solar Sister contributes to poverty alleviation and sustainable development.
3. Kamworks (Cambodia): Kamworks is a social enterprise that focuses on providing affordable and sustainable solar energy solutions to rural communities in Cambodia. They employ a unique business model that combines microfinance, local distribution networks, and community engagement to make solar power accessible to off-grid populations. Kamworks’ initiatives have improved energy access, stimulated economic activities, and improved living conditions in rural areas.
4. Husk Power Systems (India and Africa): Husk Power Systems specializes in converting agricultural waste into clean, renewable energy for rural communities. Their decentralized mini-grids powered by biomass gasification provide electricity to remote areas with limited access to the grid. By utilizing locally available resources and involving the community in the entire process, Husk Power Systems has created sustainable energy solutions that promote economic development and environmental sustainability.
5. Empower Generation (Nepal and Uganda): Empower Generation empowers women entrepreneurs in Nepal and Uganda to become distributors of clean energy products, including solar lanterns and clean cookstoves. By providing training, business mentorship, and access to capital, Empower Generation enables women to start and grow their own businesses, driving economic empowerment and improving energy access in their communities.
Conclusion Sustainable Energy and Social Entrepreneurship
The integration of sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship is a powerful force for community development.
By leveraging innovative technologies, community engagement, and sustainable business models, social entrepreneurs are driving positive change in underserved areas. These initiatives not only provide clean and affordable energy solutions but also empower communities, create jobs, and foster economic growth.
As we strive for a more sustainable and equitable future, the collaboration between sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship becomes increasingly crucial.
By working together, these two forces can accelerate the transition to clean energy, uplift marginalized communities, and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Governments, nonprofits, and the private sector must continue to support and invest in sustainable energy initiatives driven by social entrepreneurship. By nurturing an enabling environment and fostering partnerships, we can unlock the full potential of sustainable energy and social entrepreneurship to create a more prosperous and sustainable world for all.
https://www.exaputra.com/2023/07/sustainable-energy-and-social.html
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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