Australia

As another rally brings the voice of solar installers before Victorian lawmakers, signs are beginning to show that the pressure may be having an impact on the Andrews’ state government. The government has indicated that it may look to make changes to the plan – but whether that’s a result of installer pressure or public frustration is yet to be seen.

Chinese PV module maker Risen Energy has announced it has achieved the highest jump in solar module sales in the Australian market in a one-year period.

French renewables developer Neoen has won development approval from the South Australian government for a major renewable energy project, comprising 125 MW of wind generation, 150 MW of solar PV generation and 130MW/400MWh of lithium-ion battery storage. The project could also integrate up to 50 MW of on-site hydrogen production capability.

The grant recipients for the fourth phase of the Next Generation Energy Storage program have been announced. Launched in 2016, the $25 million program is supporting the roll out of up to 36 MW of smart battery storage.

In addition to joining the host of councils around Australia to declare a climate change emergency and set targets for a 100% renewable future, Victoria’s Indigo Shire Council voted early this week to achieve that goal by taking part in a collaborative Victorian Local Government PPA.  

Energy companies are pushing back against a proposal to allow large energy consumers to enter the wholesale electricity market, as industry bodies point to the many benefits of the wholesale demand response program.

Western Australia’s government has announced two units at Synergy’s Muja Power Station will be retired from October 2022. The state government said the coal-fired units were only being used about 35% of the time thanks largely to rooftop solar reducing demand on the grid.

Australian renewables developer Windlab has connected and energized its landmark energy park in north Queensland, comprising 43 MW of wind, 18 MW of solar and a 4 MWh battery.

Wattwatchers provides consumers with real-time electricity data that allows them to tailor their electricity use to make best use of their rooftop solar power. Consumer rights to energy data is crucial to a successful future grid with high penetration of DER, says Wattwatchers’ MD Gavin Dietz.

UNSW Sydney has excitedly announced the near completion of the Sunraysia Solar Farm in Balranald, NSW. With the project set to be operational by the end of the year, and with 25% of the solar farm’s generation to be purchased by UNSW, the university is set to run on 100% renewable energy from 2020.