Private investors pump $1.9 billion into WA’s decarbonisation plan
The West Australian government has utilised investor hunger for green bonds to help secure funding for major state government projects geared towards decarbonisation or environmentally sustainable outcomes as it transitions from coal-fired power to renewables.
Australian battery tech start-up targets U.S. market after $22 million funding round
Australian battery material start-up Sicona Battery Technologies will accelerate commercial development plans both here and in the United States after securing financial support from a group of international investing heavyweights for its silicon-composite anode technology designed to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries.
Australia commissions first big battery at a former coal site
The Hazelwood big battery has been commissioned at the site of the retired Hazelwood Power Station in the Latrobe Valley, Victoria. A collaboration between Engie, Eku Energy and Fluence, the 150 MW battery claims a number of Australian firsts.
Green hydrogen hopefuls granted exclusivity in NT development precinct
Australian green hydrogen proponent Fortescue Future Industries and French renewables major Total Eren are among five project developers provided with exclusivity over land in the Northern Territory government’s Middle Arm Sustainable Development Precinct on Darwin Harbour.
Key contracts awarded for 120 GWh pumped hydro project
The Queensland government has awarded two key contracts for what it says will be the largest pumped hydro energy project in the world, with the proposed 5 GW/120 GWh Pioneer-Burdekin pumped hydro energy storage system to form a cornerstone of the state’s energy transition.
Octopus plans giant Queensland energy park with 400 MWh battery, 175 MW solar acquisition
Octopus Australia has acquired a 175 MW solar and 400 MWh battery project in Queensland’s Western Downs region. It plans to integrate these assets with its newly commissioned 180 MW Dulacca Wind Farm to create one of Australia’s largest multi-technology renewable energy parks.
Saltwater redox flow battery with integrated ultracapacitor
US-based Salgenx says it has successfully integrated ultracapacitors with its saltwater redox flow batteries, resulting in significantly better power response and system performance.
Researchers identify 14 feasible pumped hydro sites in North Queensland
Griffith University researchers have developed a tool to identify sites for pumped hydro storage projects. Using North Queensland to demonstrate the tool, the researchers identified 14 potentially feasible sites in the region where the LCOE ranged between $0.04/kWh – $0.27/kWh.
Hitachi battery replaces diesel generators on Victoria’s Phillip Island
Phillip Island off Victoria’s southern coast has switched on a 5 MW/10 MWh lithium-ion phosphate battery to support the island’s grid during peak tourism periods.
Vast announces key contracts for 288 MWh solar thermal project
Construction of Australia’s first commercial-scale concentrated solar power plant is on track to begin next year with developer Vast appointing American Australian engineering company Worley to help deliver a 30 MW/288 MWh facility planned for South Australia.
