Weekend read: Strong case for energy storage, despite rising costs
Unprecedented volatility in global commodity markets, disruption to logistics and supply chains, and unrelenting growth has driven up the cost of Li-ion batteries since the middle of 2021. Sam Wilkinson and Oliver Forsyth of IHS Markit expect to see rapid manufacturing expansion that will still struggle to keep up with demand, and ultimately lead to the establishment of a smaller group of battery-makers specialized in supplying stationary energy storage systems.
Tasmania reveals 25,000 GWh pipeline of renewable energy projects
Tasmania is on track to reach its renewable energy target after a registration of interest process revealed 25,000 GWh of new large-scale renewable generators and energy storage projects are currently seeking approval for development in the island state.
UTS seeks to unlock urban roof space for solar farms
The University of Technology Sydney has outlined details of a solar PV project it says demonstrates the potential of commercial and industrial rooftop space for use as solar farms with benefits beyond satisfying the host building’s energy needs.
Report reveals massive renewable energy expansion needed to hit net zero target
New modelling has found Australia will require about 40 times the total generation capacity of today’s national electricity market, including an estimated 1,900 GW of solar PV, to deliver on its net-zero ambitions by 2050.
Polysilicon-to-solar module gigafab in planning for India
State-owned NHPC and Bharat Electronics Ltd will leverage their complementary strengths to set up a gigawatt-scale vertically integrated solar manufacturing unit.
NSW releases new guidelines for large-scale solar
The New South Wales government has moved to smooth the way for the development of large-scale solar farms in the state as the energy sector continues to transition from fossil-fuel generation towards renewables-based electricity.
CEFC points to ‘critical’ infrastructure as part of investment strategy
Australia’s Clean Energy Finance Corporation has identified transmission and grid infrastructure as a key focus as it looks to build upon more than $10 billion of clean energy commitments in its first decade of investments.
Queensland’s biggest battery reaches full commercial operations
The biggest battery yet connected to the grid in Queensland has commenced full commercial operations with developer Vena Energy announcing it has flicked the switch on the 100 MW/150 MWh Wandoan South battery energy storage system in the state’s south-west.
WA to study renewables demand to inform state’s future network
The Western Australia government will fast-track an assessment of new and existing demand for renewable energy across the state’s main electricity network as it continues the transition to a low-emissions future.
Chinese power rationing affects solar module production
China installed 37.73 GW of solar in the first seven months of this year, according to official estimates. JinkoSolar said it is struggling to cope with power rationing in Sichuan province, while Shunfeng said it expects to record a hefty net loss for the first half.
