Solar Citizens has warned the Australian Energy Market Commission’s controversial proposal to make solar PV owners pay to export their surplus production to the grid could send the National Electricity Market into a ‘death spiral’.

Australian renewable energy developer Vast Solar is calling for expressions of interest from contractors as it pushes ahead with plans to develop a $600 million hybrid solar thermal project in far western Queensland.

Solar retailer Smart Energy believes Australia’s small-scale solar PV industry has been let down by the Federal Government which has been widely criticised for the lack of funding included in the Federal Budget for the renewable energy sector.

Record investment in solar and wind farms across the National Electricity Market has helped to quell concerns that Victoria and South Australia will face increased risk of blackouts later this decade following the impending closure of the Yallourn coal-fired power plant.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg has unveiled a big-spending Budget but critics have been quick to condemn the lack of money set aside for renewable energy as a “national shame” and missed opportunity as the government continues to pursue its gas-led philosophy.

An expected drop-off in the performance of its Australian battery energy storage assets has sparked a $24 million (€15.6 million) downturn in consolidated revenue for French renewables developer Neoen.

Australia’s only solar module manufacturer Tindo Solar has unveiled a new generation 400 W module for the domestic and export markets as the Adelaide-based company rides a wave of success that has delivered a 40% increase in retail orders and 70% rise in wholesale orders in the past 12 months.

Australia’s largest energy retailer AGL is forging ahead with its strategy to convert the 1,680 MW Liddell Power Station site into a renewable energy hub, announcing on Friday it has commenced transition planning in preparation for the ageing coal-fired power plant’s closure in 2022-2023.

The proposed 35 MW Darwin big battery has received a major financial boost with the Federal Government announcing it will provide $15 million for the project as part of a $30 million funding injection for electricity infrastructure initiatives in the Northern Territory.

The Opposition has blasted the Federal Government after it was revealed a cabinet minister had used extraordinary powers to veto public funding approved for the $380 million Kaban green energy hub in North Queensland, declaring it was inconsistent with the government’s goals and policies.