President’s Report Apr 2026

Graeme Martin

It’s the beginning of the end of one stage, and the start of the next.

Village Power’s $750,000 funding from the Victorian Government for the “Putting the community into Alphington’s community battery” project is due to conclude in June. After two and a half years, with plenty of ups and downs, we’re approaching the completion of this phase of the project.

Most importantly, we are preparing to install a 500kWh community-scale battery at the entrance to the Alphington Farmers’ Market. The. system, comprising three batteries and a control panel, will be installed in early June, following the construction of a concrete foundation.

We have also selected an artist who will transform the battery and control panel into a visually engaging landmark. Many thanks to the Village Power team members and community representatives involved in the selection process, as well as the shortlisted artists for their inspiring submissions. The selected artist and their design will be revealed soon.

You may have seen our flyers or spoken with Village Power team members around the neighbourhood as part of our recent campaign to recruit participants for the Community Energy Program. We are very excited to welcome 48 participants into the first round of the program. The first workshop will take place on Wednesday 29 April—please RSVP via your email invitation.

The Community Energy Program marks the beginning of the energy transformation we hope to demonstrate through both the battery and the power of community participation.

To celebrate the completion of the build phase and the start of this new chapter, we are planning a launch event on Saturday 20 June, please save the date.