New algorithm reduces solar module temperature during clipping, curtailment
UNSW researchers have developed a thermal-aware tracking algorithm that reduces solar module temperatures and UV exposure during inverter clipping and curtailment, slowing degradation without lowering AC output. Tested in Chile’s Atacama Desert, the strategy was found to lower module temperatures by up to 7.7 C.
Hot, dry start to 2026 lifts Australian PV, despite fires and monsoon losses
Solcast, a DNV company, reports that most of Australia experienced above-average solar irradiance in January 2026 due to a hot, dry airmass and clear skies, boosting PV generation despite operational challenges from elevated temperatures, bushfire smoke, and dust. In contrast, northern Queensland and far northern regions saw significant irradiance deficits.
Hinen launches 15 kW three-phase hybrid inverter
The Chinese manufacturer said its 15 kW three-phase low-voltage hybrid inverter is paired with the stackable BP5000 5 kWh battery supporting up to 120 kWh. It features three MPPTs, 150% oversized PV input, and smart load management for optimised self-consumption.
Humelink West cuts diesel use with hybrid solar power system
Transgrid’s HumeLink West project is cutting diesel use to just one hour per day by using a hybrid solar power system at a substation site.
How delays in Australia’s switch to clean energy are hurting workers
Australia is still dragging its feet on decarbonising the economy. Last September, the Albanese government committed to a 62–70% reduction in carbon emissions by 2035 and net zero by 2050. However, only one month later, the government conceded it would fall just shy of its 2030 target and likely miss net zero without significant changes.
Longi builds 27.25%-efficient back-contact solar cells with high-resistivity wafers
High-resistivity silicon wafers offer superior efficiency potential but are highly sensitive to edge recombination and mechanical damage, limiting their commercial use compared to more robust standard wafers. Researchers from Longi and Sun Yat-sen University demonstrated that integrating in-situ edge passivation unlocks this potential, significantly boosting back-contact solar cell fill factor and efficiency.
600 MWh Tarong grid-scale battery kicks off commercial operations
Queensland gentailer Stanwell has commenced commercial operation of the 300 MW / 600 MWh Tarong battery energy storage system, which is co-located with the Tarong coal-fired power station.
Hallett battery project reaches major milestone in South Australia
EnergyAustralia’s 50 MW / 245 MW Stage 1 Hallett battery energy storage system, co-located with a gas-fired power station in South Australia has reached financial close and is now moving into the delivery phase.
NSW pledges $15 million to boost renewable energy workforce
Jointly funded with the Australian government, the New South Wales government is investing $15 million over four years to train the skilled workforce needed for the state’s renewable energy rollout.
Fox ESS partners with Origin to expand its virtual power plant offerings
China-headquartered renewable energy technology provider Fox ESS has partnered with Origin Energy to enable its home battery storage systems to connect to the Origin Loop virtual power plant.
