QIC aims to capitalize on SPS and microgrid opportunities in WA
QIC-owned Pacific Energy has bought solar and battery microgrid specialist Hybrid Systems in a bid to tap the off-grid and edge-of-grid growth in Western Australia.
Solar hot air also rises, solar chimneys save energy and lives
Researchers at RMIT University have designed a solar chimney that both saves energy, and saves lives. The solar chimney, part of a range of sustainable features built into the new Mentone Reserve Pavilion in Melbourne’s Kingston.
Solar shopping in the Sunshine State
Topping off a big week for solar in Queensland, Premier Palaszczuk announced the partnership between Energy Queensland owned Yurika and the Queensland Investment Corporation which will see 15 MW of solar installed across five shopping centres.
Sea research, see solar
The Australian Institute of Marine Sciences is installing solar PV across its facilities nationwide. The Institute, which in part studies the impacts of climate change on our marine and coastal ecosystems, is on the scientific front lines of a bleached world without renewables.
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.
