Digitalisation of transformers, a fundamental step in grid transition?
Increasing transformer reliability and performance has the potential to better control voltages in the grid, and enable greater connection of renewables. With its first major launch since Hitachi finalised its US$11 billion acquisition of ABB Power Grids in July, the company shows how digitalisation of transformers can help smooth the energy transition.
Smooth operators: Australian-designed ESS spells grid independence for the 24-60 kWh end of town
“We’ve put together the best components to make a unique Australian-designed solution that is compliant to the new battery standards,” says EVO Power’s Jamie Allen. Off grid or upmarket, just add solar.
All gas no brakes – Morrison Government spares some change for transmission upgrades
In a week dominated by the Morrison Government’s announcement of its gas-led strategy for economic recovery, it also committed $250 million to critical transmission infrastructure projects. At the same time TransGrid announced 6,900 MW of renewable investment interest in its New England Transmission Infrastructure project.
Spring cleaning – wind and solar are sweeping gas and coal out the door
New analysis from Rystad Energy and Cornwall Insights Australia demonstrate how the return of spring has once again emphasised the growing supremacy of wind and solar in Australia’s energy makeup. The stats don’t lie, wind and solar are sweeping coal and gas out the door.
Hobsons Bay City Council set to become first Melbourne metro council to start a VPP
Hobsons Bay City Council is accelerating its Large Scale Solar Installation Program with a Virtual Power Plant to enable the sharing of solar generated energy around the Council’s assets. Going forward, Council wants to see its VPP expanded to include the vast array of members in its community.
Energy incumbents attempt to hinder AEMO with hot air report
Energy industry incumbents the Australian Energy Council and Energy Networks Australia hired UK firm Cambridge Economic Policy Associates to review the Australian Energy Market Operator’s “governance framework”. In principle, a review of the AEMO’s governance given its widening role in Australia’s energy future is valuable, but this report is about as useful as a toothpick to a pelican.
QLD is in the zone – opens new renewable energy zones for proposals
The Queensland Government has opened the registrations of interest period for its three planned and well-funded Renewable Energy Zones. The Sunshine State is calling on the renewables sector to come forward and lead Queensland’s renewable revolution.
UNSW’s grid-guru Prof. Dong nominated for global energy gong
University of New South Wales’ Professor Joe Dong, the grid-guru overseeing some of the most innovative and integral research projects determining Australia’s trajectory to a grid energised by renewables, has been nominated for the Global Energy Prize.
Goyder Renewables Zone off to a capital start as ACT charges up two big batteries
The forecast for the ACT is two big batteries and gale-force winds as the territory’s Government awarded two considerable contracts in its latest ‘reverse auction’, including a 14-year contract with Neoen, the first for its massive Goyder Renewables Zone.
Solar-plus-storage for the Cook Islands
Around 4.2 MWh of energy storage capacity will be connected to a solar and diesel micro-grid on Rarotonga, the largest of the islands in the South Pacific nation. Three 40-foot containers with a total power output of 4.8 MVA will be used as a power reserve and for grid support by utility Te Aponga Uira.
