POWER UP YOUR APARTMENT: SMART ENERGY SOLUTIONS FOR ADELAIDE DWELLERS
Living in an apartment in Adelaide shouldn't mean missing out on the energy revolution. Take control of your energy, slash your bills, and embrace a greener lifestyle, all from within your apartment.
JOUSTO FOR ADELAIDE APARTMENTS: SOLUTIONS AT A GLANCE
We offer innovative energy solutions tailored for apartment living, from easy-to-use DIY smart devices to cutting-edge AC-Coupled Smart Battery Storage.
| Solution Type | Primary Benefit for Apartments | Installation | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC-Coupled Smart Battery | Whole-apartment energy independence, significant bill reduction, access to cheap grid/solar energy | Professional (Do It For Me) | Apartment owners seeking comprehensive energy management & savings |
| Jousto Energy Hub | Centralised smart automation of energy devices, optimises usage based on price signals | DIY / Professional | Tech-savvy dwellers wanting integrated control over multiple smart devices |
| Smart Plugs & Controllers | Automate individual appliances to use power at the cheapest times, reduce phantom load | DIY | Renters & owners looking for simple, affordable energy-saving automation |
| Portable Power Station | Store cheap off-peak grid power for later use, backup for essential devices, portable energy | DIY | Renters & owners needing flexible power, backup, or to maximise ToU savings |
THE APARTMENT ENERGY CHALLENGE
POWER UP YOUR SAVINGS & SUSTAINABILITY IN ADELAIDE
Apartment dwellers in Adelaide face a unique set of energy challenges. While South Australia leads in renewable energy, particularly solar, accessing its benefits directly can be difficult without a rooftop for solar panels. Many feel locked out of the solar revolution enjoyed by homeowners. This often means a continued reliance on grid electricity, which in South Australia, can be among the most expensive in the nation.
Key challenges for Adelaide apartment residents include:
- Limited Access to Rooftop Solar: The most obvious hurdle. Strata rules, building design, and lack of ownership of the roof space prevent individual solar installations.
- Rising Electricity Costs: South Australia has experienced significant electricity price volatility and high average costs, impacting household budgets.
- Understanding Complex Tariffs: Navigating Time of Use (ToU) tariffs, with peak, off-peak, and "solar sponge" periods common in South Australia, can be confusing.
- Energy Inefficiency: Older apartment buildings may lack modern insulation or energy-efficient appliances, leading to higher consumption.
- Desire for Sustainability: Many apartment dwellers are environmentally conscious and want to reduce their carbon footprint but feel powerless to do so without access to renewables.
Jousto's solutions are designed to directly address these challenges, empowering Adelaide apartment residents to take control of their energy consumption, reduce costs, and contribute to a more sustainable energy future, even without their own solar panels.
WHOLE-APARTMENT POWER, NO ROOFTOP NEEDED
Introducing Jousto's AC-Coupled Smart Battery
WHAT IS AN AC-COUPLED BATTERY AND WHY IS IT IDEAL FOR APARTMENTS?
An AC-coupled battery system is a revolutionary energy storage solution that connects to your apartment's electrical system on the alternating current (AC) side, typically at your main switchboard. Unlike DC-coupled systems that connect directly to solar panels (which most apartments can't have), AC-coupled batteries can be charged directly from the grid and work independently of solar panels.
How AC-Coupled Batteries Work:
- Grid Connection: The battery system connects to your apartment's existing electrical system via your switchboard
- Bi-Directional Inverter: Contains a built-in inverter that can both convert AC grid power to DC for battery storage and convert stored DC power back to AC for home use
- Smart Controller: The Jousto Energy Hub acts as the system's brain, deciding when to charge and discharge based on electricity prices and your usage patterns
- Seamless Operation: The system automatically switches between grid power and battery power without interruption to your appliances
This technology is perfectly suited for apartment living because it doesn't require roof access or solar panels, can be installed in utility closets or designated areas within your apartment, and requires minimal modifications to existing electrical infrastructure. It's the missing link that finally allows apartment dwellers to participate in energy storage and smart energy management.
Key benefits for apartment living:
- Grid Charging Capability: The primary advantage for apartments without solar. Our AC-coupled batteries can be charged directly from the electricity grid. Jousto's smart automation ensures this happens when grid prices are at their lowest – during off-peak hours or the "solar sponge" periods.
- Whole-Home Coverage: Unlike smaller portable units, a Jousto smart battery can be sized to cover a significant portion, if not all, of your apartment's energy needs, including high-consumption appliances like air conditioners and heating.
- Increased Self-Sufficiency: Reduce your reliance on fluctuating grid prices and take greater control over your energy costs.
- Backup Power Potential: Depending on the model and setup, some systems can provide backup power during grid outages, keeping essential appliances running.
- Future-Proofing: As energy markets evolve with more dynamic pricing, having smart storage positions you to maximise savings.
JOUSTO'S SMART ADVANTAGE: AUTOMATION AND OPTIMISATION
A Jousto AC-Coupled Smart Battery isn't just storage; it's an intelligent energy management system.
Our integrated Jousto Energy Hub is the brain, automatically:
- Monitoring Wholesale Prices: It tracks real-time electricity prices in the National Electricity Market (NEM).
- Optimising Charge/Discharge Cycles: It intelligently decides when to charge the battery (from the grid at the cheapest rates) and when to discharge it to power your apartment (during peak price periods).
- Load Shifting: It helps shift your apartment's energy consumption away from expensive peak periods to times when energy is cheap and abundant.
South Australia's "duck curve" creates the perfect opportunity for AC-coupled batteries. The system charges when prices are lowest during midday solar abundance and discharges during expensive evening peaks, saving you money without requiring your own solar panels.
| Time of Day (SA ToU Example) | Typical Grid Price Indication (SA) | Jousto Smart AC Battery Action |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (e.g., 5 pm – 9 pm) | Highest | Discharge stored low-cost energy to power apartment, minimising expensive grid imports. |
| Shoulder (e.g., other daytime/evening hours) | Moderate | Use grid power if cheaper than stored energy, or discharge battery if grid prices are rising. |
| Solar Sponge (e.g., 10 am – 3 pm) | Lowest (can be negative) | Charge battery with ultra-cheap (or even paid-for) grid electricity. |
| Off-Peak (e.g., 1 am – 6 am) | Low | Charge battery with cheap grid electricity if "Solar Sponge" charging wasn't sufficient. |
Note: Specific ToU periods and rates vary by retailer and plan. Jousto automation adapts to your specific tariff and real-time market conditions.
INSTALLATION IN YOUR ADELAIDE APARTMENT
Jousto simplifies the process of getting a smart battery system. Our "Do It For Me" service includes:
- Consultation & Quote: We assess your apartment's needs, energy usage (typical consumption for a 1-2 person Adelaide apartment can range from 10-15 kWh/day), and discuss the best system size (e.g., 10kWh or 16kWh options are available).
- Handling Approvals: We guide you through the necessary steps, including liaising with body corporates where required.
- Professional Installation: Our certified local Adelaide installers ensure a safe and compliant setup. This typically involves mounting the battery (e.g., in a utility cupboard, balcony if permissible and safe, or other suitable designated area) and connecting it to your switchboard.
- System Commissioning & Handover: We ensure everything is working optimally and show you how to monitor your system via our app.
While installing systems in apartments requires careful consideration of space, safety, and strata by-laws, AC-coupled solutions offer more flexibility than full solar retrofits. Jousto is experienced in navigating these scenarios to find the best outcome for apartment dwellers.
Ready to Power Your Entire Apartment More Intelligently?SMART & SIMPLE DIY ENERGY WINS FOR YOUR APARTMENT
Not ready for a full battery installation, or perhaps you're renting? You can still make a significant dent in your Adelaide apartment's energy bills and carbon footprint with Jousto's range of Do-It-Yourself (DIY) smart energy products.
JOUSTO ENERGY HUB
The Jousto Energy Hub is your central command for energy automation. Built on the powerful Home Assistant Green platform, this plug-and-play device connects and coordinates your smart plugs, smart appliances, and even portable power stations.
Key Features:
- Connects to a wide array of devices via Tuya, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and more
- Pre-loaded Jousto Energy Automation profile for optimised energy savings
- Remote onboarding and ongoing chat support for easy setup
- Monitors real-time energy prices and your consumption patterns
JOUSTO SMART PLUGS
Our smart plugs are the simplest way to start automating. Just plug them in, connect your appliance, and let Jousto optimise its energy use.
Key Benefits:
- Load Shifting: Program appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, or heaters to run only when electricity is cheapest
- Eliminate Vampire Drain: Cut power completely to devices that draw "phantom load" when off or in standby
- Affordable & Renter-Friendly: No complex installation required, take them with you when you move
JOUSTO PORTABLE POWER STATIONS
For an extra layer of energy control and savings, especially for renters, consider a portable power station. These devices allow you to capture cheap grid electricity and use it later.
Key Benefits:
- Store grid electricity when prices are low (e.g., during "solar sponge" or negative price events)
- Power essential appliances (laptops, TVs, fans, mini-fridges) during peak price periods
- Provides backup power during outages
- Portable for use around the apartment or even on the go
By combining these DIY solutions, Adelaide apartment dwellers can create a powerful, personalised energy-saving system. Start small with a smart plug, or go for comprehensive control with the Jousto Energy Hub and a portable power station.
Shop DIY Energy SolutionsNAVIGATING APARTMENT LIVING: STRATA, APPROVALS & MAKING IT WORK
Implementing energy solutions in an apartment, especially more permanent installations like an AC-coupled battery, requires understanding the rules and processes of strata title living in South Australia.
UNDERSTANDING STRATA BY-LAWS AND APPROVALS
Strata by-laws typically differentiate between minor cosmetic changes and more significant alterations that might affect common property, building structure, or the external appearance of the building.
DIY Solutions (Smart Plugs, Portable Power Stations): Generally, these are considered personal appliances and do not require strata approval as they don't involve alterations to the building's structure or electrical wiring. Smart plugs simply plug into existing outlets, and portable power stations are standalone devices. The Jousto Energy Hub, connecting to your router and smart devices, also typically falls into this category.
AC-Coupled Smart Battery Installation: This is considered a more significant installation. It involves connecting to your apartment's main switchboard and mounting the battery unit. This will almost certainly require body corporate approval. Strata schemes have rules about alterations to common property (which can include external walls or utility cupboards where batteries might be sited) and installations that could impact building insurance or safety.
THE APPROVAL PROCESS:
- Review Your Strata By-Laws: The first step is to obtain and carefully review your specific strata scheme's by-laws regarding renovations and installations. These documents outline what is permitted and the process for seeking approval.
- Consult Your Strata Manager/Body Corporate: Discuss your plans with your strata manager or body corporate committee early in the process. They can provide guidance on the specific requirements and approval pathways.
- Formal Application: You will likely need to submit a formal application detailing the proposed installation, including product specifications, installer qualifications, proposed location, and any potential impact on common property or other residents.
- Meeting and Vote: Major alterations often require a resolution (e.g., special resolution) passed at an owners' corporation meeting.
While the ultimate responsibility for obtaining body corporate approval lies with the lot owner, Jousto and our network of certified Adelaide installers can provide support through this process for AC-Coupled Smart Battery installations.
JOUSTO'S "DO IT FOR ME" SERVICE – WE CAN HELP
We can provide support through the strata approval process:
- Documentation: We can supply detailed product specifications and installation plans required for your application.
- Expert Advice: Our team can offer advice based on experience with similar installations, though we always recommend direct consultation with your strata manager.
- Certified Installers: Our installers are licensed and insured, meeting a key requirement for most body corporates. They will ensure all work complies with Australian Standards for electrical installations and battery systems.
Key Considerations for Battery Installation in Apartments:
- Location: Identifying a suitable, safe, and compliant location for the battery unit is crucial. This might be an internal utility space, a secure balcony area (subject to by-laws and engineering assessment), or a designated common property area if approved by the body corporate.
- Safety Standards: All installations must adhere to strict Australian safety standards for battery energy storage systems (BESS). This includes considerations for ventilation, fire safety, and electrical compliance.
- Noise: While modern battery systems are generally quiet, any potential noise impact on neighbours should be considered and addressed in the proposal.
- Insurance: The body corporate will need to be informed to ensure the building's insurance remains valid and adequately covers the new installation. You may also need to update your own contents insurance.
Our AC-coupled battery solution is designed to integrate with your existing electrical infrastructure with minimal disruption. For renters or those seeking simpler solutions, our DIY smart plugs and portable power stations offer significant benefits without needing strata approval for installations.
Contact Us for Strata AdviceWHY CHOOSE JOUSTO FOR YOUR ADELAIDE APARTMENT?
Choosing the right energy solution for your Adelaide apartment is a significant decision. Jousto stands out by offering a unique combination of innovative technology, tailored advice, and a commitment to empowering apartment dwellers.
SOLUTIONS DESIGNED FOR APARTMENT LIVING
Our AC-Coupled Smart Batteries and DIY products are specifically designed with apartment dwellers in mind. No solar panels required – our core benefits, like accessing cheaper grid electricity through smart scheduling and storage, don't depend on you having solar panels.
MAXIMISE SAVINGS IN THE ADELAIDE MARKET
South Australia's ToU tariffs, including "solar sponge" periods with ultra-low (even negative) wholesale prices, present a huge opportunity. Jousto's automation intelligently shifts your energy consumption and battery charging to these cheapest times, significantly reducing your bills.
EXPERTISE AND SUPPORT
We understand the South Australian energy landscape, from SA Power Networks' tariff structures to local installation requirements. For our "Do It For Me" battery installations, we offer a streamlined process from initial consultation to professional installation and ongoing support.
QUALITY PRODUCTS AND TECHNOLOGY
We partner with leading brands like Goodwe and Sungrow for our battery systems, ensuring reliability and performance. The Jousto Energy Hub, built on Home Assistant, provides robust and flexible smart home energy automation.
SUSTAINABILITY
By optimising your energy use and enabling the storage of abundant renewable grid power, you're contributing to a more stable and sustainable energy system in South Australia while reducing your carbon footprint.
CONTROL AND TRANSPARENCY
Our app gives you visibility and control over your energy usage and savings. Monitor your consumption, track your savings, and adjust settings from anywhere, putting you in complete control of your apartment's energy.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Yes, it is possible to install an AC-coupled battery system in many apartments, though it does require consideration of several factors:
- You'll need strata/body corporate approval for the installation
- There must be a suitable location for the battery (utility room, secure balcony area, etc.)
- The installation must comply with all relevant safety standards
- You'll need access to your apartment's main switchboard
Jousto's "Do It For Me" service can help navigate these requirements. We'll assess your apartment's suitability, help with the approval process, and ensure a compliant installation. For renters or those unable to install a permanent battery, our portable power stations offer a flexible alternative that requires no approvals.
Savings vary based on your current electricity usage, tariff structure, and which Jousto solutions you implement, but many Adelaide apartment dwellers see significant reductions in their energy bills:
- AC-Coupled Smart Battery: Typically reduces bills by 30-50% by storing cheap off-peak or "solar sponge" electricity and using it during expensive peak periods.
- Smart Plugs & Energy Hub: Can reduce bills by 10-20% by automatically shifting energy-intensive appliances to run during the cheapest times.
- Portable Power Stations: Can save 5-15% by allowing you to charge during cheap periods and power devices during expensive peak times.
The greatest savings come from combining these solutions with a time-of-use tariff or wholesale-exposed electricity plan that takes advantage of South Australia's significant price variations throughout the day.
Renters have several excellent options that don't require landlord approval or permanent modifications:
- Smart Plugs: These simply plug into existing outlets and can automatically run appliances during cheap electricity periods.
- Jousto Energy Hub: This connects to your Wi-Fi network and coordinates your smart devices without any permanent installation.
- Portable Power Stations: These standalone units can be charged during cheap periods and used to power devices during expensive times. They're completely portable and can move with you.
These solutions can be combined to create a comprehensive energy management system that moves with you from one rental to the next. Many renters start with a few smart plugs for their highest-consumption appliances and expand their system over time.
Jousto's system leverages South Australia's unique electricity market dynamics, particularly the significant price variations throughout the day:
- During "solar sponge" periods (typically 10am-3pm), when abundant solar generation across the state pushes wholesale electricity prices very low (sometimes even negative), our system charges batteries or runs high-consumption appliances.
- During expensive peak periods (typically 5pm-9pm), our system uses stored energy or minimizes consumption to avoid high costs.
This approach is called "energy arbitrage" – buying (or storing) energy when it's cheap and avoiding consumption when it's expensive. While having your own solar panels can enhance savings, South Australia's grid already has so much solar generation that you can benefit from these price dynamics without having panels yourself.
Our smart automation handles all this complexity in the background, ensuring you're always using energy in the most cost-effective way possible.
The ideal battery size depends on your apartment's energy consumption patterns and your savings goals:
- A typical 1-2 person Adelaide apartment uses 10-15 kWh of electricity per day
- For significant bill reduction, we typically recommend a battery that can cover your evening/peak usage, which is often 30-50% of daily consumption
- Common sizes for apartments are 5kWh, 10kWh, or 16kWh systems
During our consultation process, we'll analyze your electricity bills and usage patterns to recommend the optimal battery size for your specific situation. We can also discuss scalable options that allow you to start with a smaller battery and expand capacity later if desired.
TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR APARTMENT'S ENERGY FUTURE TODAY!
Stop paying more than you need to for electricity in your Adelaide apartment. Whether you're looking for simple DIY solutions to cut costs or a comprehensive smart battery system to power your entire home, Jousto has the answer.
Unsure where to start? Need expert advice tailored to your Adelaide apartment?
Our energy specialists are here to help. We can assess your needs, explain your options, and guide you through the process, including navigating body corporate considerations for battery installations.
