Quick Hits

The market operator today announced a “staged” return to the national energy market’s normal operations as 4000 MW of generation capacity comes back into operation.

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) says it has not suspended solar and wind project commissioning, though it noted the schedules for some projects have been adjusted because of the ongoing energy supply crisis.

Hailed as a landmark for Australia’s vision of becoming a global hydrogen exporter, the Suiso Frontier’s first shipment of liquid hydrogen from Australia is now under investigation after a flame was seen coming from the gas combustion unit’s exhaust on deck.

For just shy of a week leading up to December 29, South Australia sourced an average of 101% of its electricity demand from renewable energy.

The Queensland government has published its draft plan to unlock 3,300 MW, or 3.3 GW, of new renewable generation as part of the first stage of developing state’s three Renewable Energy Zones (REZs).

Australians are overjoyed at the Morrison government’s strong, detailed plan to get the nation to net zero by 2050… nah, just kidding. In the last 24 hours, the internet has erupted with criticism, scolding everything from the plan’s font, to its copyright date, and mind bogglingly vacancy. Here are some of the best reactions so far…

On Sunday, Australia set a new record for minimum operational demand, with the national grid dipping below 14 GW. Renewables met 55% of that, while rooftop solar accounted for 34%.

AGL’s Managing Director and CEO, Brett Redman, has left the company after he told its board he believed “he could not make a long-term commitment” as the energy giant moves to split into two separate entities.

Australia’s largest dairy processor, Saputo Dairy Australia, has signed a 10 year power purchasing agreement with French-owned power company Engie to reduce its emissions through renewably sourced electricity.

Gold mining company Wiluna Mining Corp has started its move to renewables, installing a 2 MW battery to replace diesel generators with plans to integrate solar, wind or pumped storage options in the coming years.