The National Energy Guarantee (NEG) is looking more likely to be implemented with the swearing in of Steven Marshall as the South Australia’s 46th premier today. While the change of government, a of the Liberal party’s victory in Saturday’s election will undoubtedly lead to a departure from some of the Weatherill government’s pro-renewables policies, it also silences a vocal opponent to the NEG at the negotiating table.

Market analysts IHS Markit believes Australia installed some 7,000 – 8,000 residential storage systems in 2017. “Really strong growth” is expected this year as the economics continue to improve.

WA grid operator Western Power has launched a tender to provide stand-alone power systems in up to 60 locations. Building on a trial program, the systems will include solar and battery storage supported with backup diesel generators.

Home builder Mirvac is partnering with the CEFC to provide rooftop PV and battery storage systems for more than 300 new family homes. The renewable energy systems will include 5.1 kW rooftop systems and 10 kWh batteries.

SA Liberal leader, and potential premier, Steven Marshall has been ordered to print a retraction for his campaign claim that the Liberal Energy Solution will save South Australians more than $300 per household.

German energy storage producer Varta Storage has entered the Australian market. It is introducing the pulse 3 and pulse 6 models, sized at 3.3 kWh and 6.5 kWh.

German energy storage system manufacturer Tesvolt has launched a new battery storage system designed to withstand testing outdoor applications. The TS HV 70 can be equipped with up to four battery racks and inverters, allowing it to scale from 67 kWh up to 307 kWh.

German energy storage provider Younicos is introducing C&I battery storage systems on a rental basis. The company says service is ideal for offgrid industries such as the Australian mining sector.

Retailer Powershop Australia is partnering with Reposit Power to offer a customers with rooftop PV and battery storage a quarterly payment plan in exchange for access to customers’ batteries. The Virtual Power Plant program will be called Grid Impact and Powershop says it will help stabilise the electricity network.

Oil and gas giants Total and BP are entering the Australian large-scale solar segment. Rystad SERA made the observation in its latest report.