2017: the year the states stepped up for solar, storage
Looking back on an unprecedented year for Australia’s renewables sector, when it was never far from mainstream headlines, 2017 may very well be the watershed year for the industry. And it is the states, rather than the federal government, which have taken the lead.
Trump team argues strongly for tariffs
Reports say an unreleased memo circulating within the White House lays out arguments for the strongest of trade sanctions against Chinese solar module makers in what is likely a bad sign for U.S. solar markets.
Victorian reverse auction community engagement criteria asks developers to go extra mile
The Victorian Renewable Energy Auction Scheme (VREAS) makes community engagement an eligibility and evaluation criteria for funding, with a benefit-sharing program a first in State Government regulation of renewable energy projects.
Australian Greens call for RET expansion as AEMC finds wholesale price increases will be “reversed” by renewables
The Australian Greens are continuing their advocacy for a RET extension and expansion beyond 2020, on the back of the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) finding that renewables are driving down electricity prices. In its latest report on electricity prices, AEMC has found that much of 2017’s 11% residential price increases will be “reversed” as around 4 GW of renewables come online – driven by the RET.
Australia welcomes formal creation of International Solar Alliance
As it officially came into force on Wednesday, the International Solar Alliance was welcomed by Australia, one of its 19 founding members.
Australian renewable energy sector lacks women on company boards
Last week the Clean Energy Council announced the winner of its 2018 Women in Renewables scholarship. Women in Renewables chair, Natalie Collard, reflects on why we need more women on boards.
Solar to suffer as Australia drags heels on National Energy Guarantee, says BNEF
Proposed National Energy Guarantee program could see investments in solar and wind power fall dramatically should PM Turnbull overlook stricter 2030 emissions reduction target, Bloomberg New Energy Finance reports.
Leading solar, storage bodies combine to form Smart Energy Council
The Smart Energy Council, a merger of Australia’s leading industry bodies for solar and storage, will be looking to better reflect the country’s energy future.
ASC adds financial expertise, Oliver Yates joins board
Former Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) CEO Oliver Yates has joined the board of the Australian Solar and Energy Storage Council.
The clock ticks: ITC turns Section 201 over to President Trump
With the receipt of the final report by the ITC, the Trump Administration now has 60 days to take action on the Section 201 case. The probability of restrictive tariffs is high, a move that will likely have impacts on the global solar industry.
