Australia, Singapore to drive cooperation on low-emissions technologies
The prime ministers of Australia and Singapore have agreed to work together on practical projects and initiatives in developing hydrogen markets and renewable electricity trade.
Brigalow turn-on: 35 MW solar farm beats the odds
A legend of rock music and persistence, Brigalow Solar Farm has begun exporting energy to the grid in Queensland’s Darling Downs.
ARENA boosts funding for RayGen’s “solar hydro” power plant
The Australian Government and the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) are set to fund RayGen Resources Pty Ltd (RayGen) to the tune of $3 million toward a feasibility study for a 4 MW “solar hydro” power plant in north-western Victoria.
Two solar and one wind farm in north Queensland could be curtailed to zero
Three renewable energy generators in northern Queensland are facing major constraints due to system strength issues.
FRV buys 90 MW NSW solar farm, inks PPA with Snowy Hydro
Spanish developer Fotowatio Renewable Ventures (FRV) has signed its second power purchase agreement with the government-owned retailer Snowy Hydro for a solar project, which it bought from Germany’s Ib vogt.
Australian Government stimulates solar PV in the face of Coronavirus threat
The Australian Government’s “Economic Response to the Coronavirus” incentivises commercial and industrial solar PV uptake.
AEMC heeds renewable energy industry criticism on new transmission access rules
In welcome news for solar and wind developers in Australia, the network rule maker has decided to not to rush through changes to transmission access rules under the much-criticized Coordination of Generation and Transmission Investment (CoGATI) plan.
Trina Solar doubles down on PV 5.0
Trina Solar’s two new bifacial solar modules are touted as a “game changer,” not only for utility-scale projects, but for commercial and industrial developments as well. PV innovation continues to reduce costs and improve performance, but Australia’s outdated infrastructure is doing its best to slow the transition down.
Short-term symptoms
The COVID-19 outbreak has disrupted the global PV supply chain. China, the largest manufacturing hub for solar products, has postponed factory openings in many regions, as it has been hit by logistical hiccups, staff shortages, and delivery delays. Manufacturers in some Chinese provinces are running under capacity, while those overseas are facing the same situation.
BNEF lowers 2020 global PV outlook due to coronavirus concerns
Many solar factories in China are starting to resume production, suggesting that concerns about supplies of PV components could soon begin to ease. Nevertheless, the temporary standstill will have an impact on the global solar market, as the implementation of some projects will probably be postponed until next year.
