Australian clean energy technology recycling solutions company Livium has completed a $4.5 million capital raise to fuel its expansion strategy, including driving battery collection growth and accelerating its solar panel recycling plans.

Pioneering solar researcher Martin Green has received arguably one of the world’s top awards for engineers and scientists in recognition of his achievements in photovoltaics and driving the global shift to renewables.

Inverters must withstand the high levels of heat generated when operating, otherwise system performance and reliability could be at risk. Cody Schoener of Dow Performance Silicones argues using silicone-based materials for inverters can improve thermal management and fire protection, while offering thermal stability, environmental resistance, electrical isolation and support for operational efficiency.

The world’s largest battery-electric ship has reached a new milestone with shipbuilder Incat Tasmania confirming that one of the vessel’s four battery rooms is now receiving electrical charge ahead of sea trials later this year.

Renewables developer Global Power Generation Australia is seeking federal government approval to develop a 290 MW solar farm and 180 MW / 360 MWh battery energy storage system in Queensland’s Fraser Coast region.

Australians love rooftop solar power. About 4 million homes have solar panels on their roofs, and we generate more solar energy per person than any other country. But affordability pressures on homeowners are holding them back from installing rooftop solar on millions of homes. Without this, Australia could struggle to meet its goal of generating more than 80% of electricity from renewables by 2030.

China-headquartered PV cell and module manufacturer TW Solar has introduced into the Australian market a “full black” n-type solar panel featuring an output of 470 W and a power conversion efficiency of 23.5%.

The Australian Energy Market Operator estimates data centres will consume 6% of Australia’s grid-supplied electricity by 2030. To put that in context, that’s more than the current share of Australia’s healthcare and social assistance industry. The power-hungry nature of these facilities presents major problems for the energy grid.

Australian homes equipped with solar systems are commanding a price premium with new data showing they are valued at up to $31,350 more than similar properties without PV installations when it comes time to sell.

Australian renewables developer ACEnergy has won approval from the New South Wales Independent Planning Commission for a 250 MW / 1,100 MWh battery energy storage system to be built in the state’s southwest.