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.
Southeast Asia bets big on pumped hydro with 18 GW tipped by 2033
The increasing role of pumped hydro technology in Australia’s renewable energy transition is expected to be mirrored in the neighbouring Southeast Asia region with international consultancy Rystad Energy tipping the total capacity of operational projects will surge from the current 2.3 GW to 18 GW by 2033.
Dutton urged to broaden nuclear energy plan beyond electricity
Opposition leader Peter Dutton’s talk of stepping back from Australia’s 2030 emissions targets has created confusion and concern on several fronts, and sparked vigorous political debate over our pathway to a carbon-free future.
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.
Japanese utilities giant’s proposed takeover of Genex lands FIRB approval
Japanese energy utility J-Power’s proposed acquisition of Australian renewables and pumped hydro developer Genex Power has received Foreign Investment Review Board approval.
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.
Enel Green Power secures finance for NSW solar and storage project
The Quorn Park Hybrid Project, that will comprise an 80 MW solar farm and two-hour battery energy storage system, is expected to commence full operations in early 2026 with developer Enel Green Power Australia announcing the construction phase will begin within the next quarter.
Longi claims 34.6% efficiency for perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell
The European Solar Test Installation has confirmed Longi’s achievement of a world record-breaking efficiency rating of 34.6% for a perovskite-silicon tandem solar cell.
Weekend read: Southeast Asian solar’s bright future
Ibrahim Ariffin and JP Grayda, from Afry Management Consulting, examine two promising ASEAN markets, the Philippines and Malaysia, and the challenges they face as they strive to hit renewable energy targets. The long-term outlook is broadly positive, despite some uncertainties.
