ARENA Supports CER Integration with $1.7M for UNSW’s Project CICCADA

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) is funding $1.7 million for UNSW’s Project CICCADA, a $4.3 million initiative aimed at addressing integration challenges of Consumer Energy Resources (CER) like rooftop solar, home batteries, and EVs into the National Energy Market (NEM).

With Australia leading in rooftop solar adoption—40% of free-standing homes equipped with solar—the integration of these technologies is essential for achieving renewable energy and emissions goals. Acting CEO of ARENA, Chris Faris, emphasized CER’s role in decentralizing energy production and enhancing grid reliability while reducing emissions.

“CER technologies give Australians control over their energy footprint and help balance supply and demand, ensuring less vulnerability to disruptions,” Faris said.

The project will:

• Analyze real-world data from CER devices under varying network conditions.

• Ensure CER integration maintains grid stability, power reliability, and energy quality.

• Offer insights to AEMO and energy distributors for efficient grid management.

UNSW Senior Lecturer Dr. Baran Yildiz described CER as the driver of Australia’s clean energy transition.

“Through evidence-based research, Project CICCADA aims to maximise societal benefits while supporting network security,” Dr. Yildiz said.

Building on previous work, including ARENA-funded Project Match, this initiative seeks to refine tools and strategies for CER adoption in real-world scenarios.

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