Powerlink gets ARENA funding to investigate system strength challenges in North Queensland
A new study partly funded by the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) will look at system strength issues that have been an emerging challenge for renewable energy generation in the National Electricity Market, and explore the merits of several technical solutions, including battery storage.
Neoen to build Australia’s largest solar farm after power deal with CleanCo
Between 460 and 480 MWp in size, Western Downs will become the largest solar farm in Australia, bringing significant regional economic benefits to South West Queensland.
Environmental approval recommended for gigawatt-scale renewable energy hub
A mega solar and wind energy project in Western Australia’s Pilbara region has moved forward after being recommended for environmental approval.
WoodMac: Grid congestion chokes renewables investments in Australia
Wood Mackenzie analysts have expressed concern over deteriorating renewable energy investment conditions in Australia, noting that greater clarity on transmission investment is needed to support the sector.
Solar buyback trend continues
In the face of the Covid-19 economic crisis, companies and investment firms are looking to buyback existing solar systems from businesses in exchange for ready cash and decent terms.
LCOE from large scale PV fell 4% to $50 per megawatt-hour in six months
Analysts at Bloomberg New Energy Finance say the lowest-cost projects financed in Australia, China, Chile and the UAE in the last six months hit a levelized cost of energy of just $23-29/MWh and the best solar and wind projects will produce electricity for less than $20/MWh by 2030.
AEMO: The grid can handle 75% renewables by 2025
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has found that the country already has the technical capability to safely operate a system where three-quarters of electricity comes from wind and solar. However, to do so it needs to get regulations right.
Despite solar woes, Tesla recorded its first profitable Q1
Tesla finished the first quarter of 2020 with a positive GAAP net income, driven by the profitability of the Model Y. However, the story was not so bright for solar, storage or corporate governance.
Victorian college to source 130% of its energy needs from renewables
Melbourne-based Presbyterian Ladies’ College has upped the ante on renewable energy with the installation of a massive rooftop PV array.
Code red! Agricultural solar hit by NSW Environmental Planning Policy Amendment
The New South Wales solar industry hailed last week’s amendment to the state planning laws, which allows installation of larger rooftop solar systems on households and businesses without council approvals. But omission of a previous enabling clause from the legislation will add cost and delays to ground-mounted solar developments of more than 30 kW.
