U.S. startup claims doubled energy output with terrain-following solar array
United States-headquartered startup Planted Solar uses construction robots and high-density arrays to deliver what the company says are higher energy outputs per hectare and lower balance of system costs.
Batteries on wheels trial gets $3.2 million boost
Over the next three years energy retailer and tech company Amber Electric will trial a software solution for electric vehicle smart charging and bi-directional vehicle-to-grid services to enable consumers using their cars can buy and sell energy to the grid.
Thermal energy storage tech to bolster industry decarbonisation
Long duration energy storage developer MGA Thermal is one step closer to commissioning its behind-the-meter demonstration plant after receiving a $2.48 million windfall from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency.
Australian manufacturer wheels out first electric bus in WA
The first of 18 electric buses to be manufactured in Perth as part of a joint $250 million Western Australian and federal government initiative has been rolled out as the state pushes ahead with plans to decarbonise its public transport system.
New $100 million challenge targets 50 GW per year
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency has dangled a $100 million carrot in front of the world’s best and brightest solar industry proponents to help lower solar and electricity costs to scale up annual installation in Australia from 5 GW per year to 50 GW.
Sunshine Coast to host Australian first local renewable energy zone
A “nation first” local renewable energy zone will be established on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast as part of a pilot program designed to boost rooftop solar generation, store it and share it locally across the poles and wires infrastructure that already exists.
AEMO calls for sustained investment as WA power supply outlook improves
The Australian Energy Market Operator has eased forecasts of a looming capacity shortfall in Western Australia’s main electricity grid but has warned of the need for “substantial and sustained” investment in renewables to replace coal-fired power stations and meet surging demand from customers electrifying their operations.
JA Solar debuts 23.3%-efficient single-glass, anti-dust solar panel
The new module has a power output of up to 650 W and weighs 29.6 kg. It uses JA Solar’s patented anti-dust frame technology, which reportedly enhances drainage and decontamination performance, thus reducing dust accumulation and avoiding hotspot issues.
Drone technology delivers transmission first for Powerlink
Queensland network operator Powerlink is claiming a first for the Asia-Pacific region after partnering with Australian technology company Infravision, which uses drones for aerial power line installation, to connect a renewable energy project in north Queensland to the national grid.
WA green lights first solar project under streamlined approvals process
Yindjibarndi Energy Corporation’s ambition to be a key player in Australia’s clean energy transition has received a boost with the Western Australian government fast tracking approval for a 150 MW solar project in the Pilbara.
