Long read: Solar + wind, the benefits of co-location
Shared grid connections, complimentary resource availability, and more grid-friendly power are among the key advantages of pairing wind farms with solar arrays – and developers are quickly moving into the emerging space.
Federal government launches $50 million microgrid funding program
Up to $20 million of grants will be awarded for microgrid feasibility studies across Australia through the first round of the Federal Government’s Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund. The fund aims to provide more secure, affordable and reliable power to regional communities and save “hundreds of millions of dollars” on network upgrades.
Wind testing, specifications in focus as tracker deployment surges
Single-axis tracker deployment has increased dramatically in the past two-to-three years, both in terms of the number of PV plants adopting the technology and the sheer size of some tracking systems. Given this, durability in the face of high wind loads has been brought into sharp focus with new testing and calculation methods providing more certainty for EPCs, owners and investors.
“I said ‘Lord Howe!’” Iconic island to receive solar + battery storage installation
Lord Howe Island is set to finally receive a solution to its energy problems with the installation of a solar + battery storage system that will reduce its reliance on diesel fuel.
Q Cells launches fully integrated residential solar power system
South Korean solar module maker Hanwha Q Cells has launched Q.Home in Australia, its new integrated residential solar power system which has seen success in the European market.
Sausages set to sizzle as CEC announces inaugural Clean Energy Open Day
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) will host its first Clean Energy Open Day at Wind and Solar farms across five states on Sunday 27 October. The Open Day is the perfect opportunity for those curious about renewable energies and the energy transition, or simply those on the hunt for a good sausage sizzle.
Coffs Harbour begins rapid solar uptake
Coffs Harbour City Council has begun a rapid uptake of solar PV as it looks to meet its target of 100% renewable energy by 2030.
Safety first: Solar installer banned from Victoria solar rebate program
Following joint investigations by Solar Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria, the Victorian government has banned a solar installer from the Solar Homes program for at least two years. The investigations found that Space Solar had employed unlicensed electricians to carry out works, resulting in technical and safety defects.
CSP innovator Vast Solar wins International Energy Award
Aussie company Vast Solar wins Technology Innovation Award at the International Energy Agency’s (IEA) SolarPACES 2019.
Siemens backs 5 GW solar and wind plans to produce green hydrogen
A massive green hydrogen production project has been unveiled for Western Australia with Siemens on board as technology partner. The project location is touted as Australia’s best for combined solar and wind generation potential.
