Victorian networks seek smart solutions to counter grid constraints
A trio of Victorian electricity distributors are turning to new, smarter technologies including more battery energy storage systems and demand management programs as they seek to meet changing customer needs and improve grid reliability in areas where the low-voltage distribution network is constrained.
Territory reveals plans to reduce solar feed-in tariff
An estimated 13,000 rooftop solar PV customers in Australia’s far north face having their feed-in tariff for solar power exported to the grid slashed by more than half with the Northern Territory government revealing plans to usher in changes to the existing scheme from 1 July.
Solar shorts: 120MW solar farm gets tick of approval
French renewables developer Engie continues to build its Australian clean energy portfolio with confirmation that its 120MW Silverleaf Solar Farm to be constructed near Narrabri in New South Wales has received development approval from the state government.
Storing renewables with high-rise elevators
Lift Energy Storage Technology is a proposed long-term storage solution that relies on elevators to bring solid masses to the tops of buildings in charging mode. It then lowers the same mass to produce electricity in discharge mode.
Race for NSW renewable energy zone role trimmed to three
Three groups of companies remain in the race to serve as network operator for Australia’s first coordinated renewable energy zone with the New South Wales government revealing its shortlist of candidates.
Renac Power unveils high-voltage residential battery
Renac Power’s new plug-and-play battery has a storage capacity of 3.74 kWh, but it can be enhanced in series with up to five batteries to 18.7 kWh. It has a nominal voltage of 96 V and a voltage range of 81 V to 108 V.
Victorian Big Battery drives major revenue jump for Neoen
The 300MW/450MWh Victorian big battery has proven a financial winner for French renewable power producer Neoen which has reported its first-quarter revenue has jumped by more than one third.
Enphase predicts another revenue landmark this quarter
Enphase expects the volume of business generated to rise again for the April-June period, accompanied by another bump in battery shipments.
US startup claims hydrogen output for $1.2/kg or less via new water vapour electrolyser
Advanced Ionics has developed an electrolyser that runs at temperatures below 650 C. It is reportedly able to produce hydrogen for US$0.85/kg (AU$1.2/kg) or less. CEO Chad Mason recently spoke with pv magazine to provide a closer look at the water vapour electrolysis tech.
Elon Musk wins SolarCity lawsuit, avoids $2.8 billion judgment
Business magnate Elon Musk has avoided what would have been the largest judgment in US history on an individual executive.
