Solar and battery-run Queensland neighbourhoods to save on bills

“On top of the photovoltaic solar energy and batteries, they will also have heat pump hot water and wifi-controlled air condition allowing them to make use of the solar energy during the day and manage it remotely via mobile phones and tables.”

Economic Development Queensland spokesman Michael Cain said they were building “homes of the future”.

“These houses are designed to be cool in summer and warm in winter with minimal amount of energy being spent,” he said.

“They’ll generate most of their power themselves.

“At Carseldine, they’ll generate 122 per cent of energy need so there’s an opportunity to provide back to the grid.”

Mr Cain said there was an option to take part in a virtual power plant.

“It’s a bit like a…