Balance of Systems

With three models of 500 W solar panels officially unveiled, here’s a look at what it means for the future of project development and the solar industry at large.

As the outbreak takes its toll on solar panel and battery manufacturing in China, Australia is bracing for disruptions in the supply chains.

WoodMac analysts say the amount of new battery manufacturing capacity added in the nation this year could fall by as much as 10% because of the outbreak. With Tesla’s Shanghai gigafactory affected by the extended new-year-holiday shutdown, the analyst warned of potential supply shortages for Australia and the U.S. and U.K.

The internet’s favorite energy company installed 530 megawatt-hours of battery storage in Q4, beating out the previous record, set last quarter, as well as showing continued improvement in solar installations.

Unnamed Queensland and Victoria solar businesses have been ordered to pay hefty fines, after being caught misclassifying solar mounting kits imported from China. Earlier this year, the Australian Border Force announced it was tightening screws on the dumping of aluminium extrusions, mostly used to mount solar panels.

The first commercial shipment of China-made Soluna batteries has reached the Australian shores. The new battery brand will be sold locally by a joint venture between Lithium Australia and China’s DLG Group.

The Brisbane-based energy storage manufacturer has been approved by Australia’s Clean Energy Council for its SunRise Home Battery system.

Uralla-based Meralli Solar has completed the installation of another solar farm in just eight weeks, thanks to Belectric PEG frame system. The 8.9 MW project sits at Baroota, South Australia.

Almost a year after the opening of its assembly and manufacturing facility at the site of the old Holden factory, German battery manufacturer Sonnen can now officially say its products are made in the land of kangaroos.

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.