RMIT researchers demonstrate first working proton battery
Scientists at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) have demonstrated the first working example of a ‘proton battery’, which utilizes a carbon electrode and reversible hydrogen fuel cell for the storage of energy. The scientists say that their small prototype has already demonstrated similar storage capacities to commercially available lithium-ion batteries, with plenty of potential for further optimization.
Rooftop installations above 2017’s record-breaking year
February rooftop solar installations exceeded 115 MW, well above the less-than 80 MW installed in the same month 2017 – itself a record-breaking solar year in Australia. Green Energy Markets’ latest STC figures reveal the “extraordinary” installation rates.
Neoen’s 50 MW hydrogen electrolyser at proposed wind and solar facility in SA receives grant
French firm Neoen has begun development on a hydrogen electrolyser to be colocated alongside a 150 MW wind project and 150 MW solar farm. The project has been awarded a grant of $1 million by the South Australian Renewable Technology fund, with more funding yet to be approved.
Too much solar? Not now, not a problem
The Grattan Institute has warned that surging small-scale solar system installations are depressing midday wholesale electricity prices – giving reason for subsidies to be cut and putting downward pressure of residential PV FITs. Green Energy Markets’ Tristan Edis says the level of solar generation is not yet a problem, and that simple solutions to absorb solar energy during the day are at hand.
Verdia: 10 MW Stockland deal a sign of bigger things to come
Commercial and industrial (C&I) PV and energy efficiency provider Verdia says that its deal to supply Stockland shopping centres with rooftop PV is just the beginning of a major wave of new installations in the fast-growing market segment. Verdia reports it is working on 130 MW of projects across 350 sites.
Study: Australian community renewable energy “new, but growing”
A new study led by University of Queensland researchers has revealed that community renewable energy projects are growing in Australia. Falling technology costs are empowering groups of people ordinarily unable to become ‘prosumers’ to get involved in the energy market.
Newcastle Council to build 5 MW array after power bill doubles in two years
The Newcastle City Council will construct a 5 MW PV array at its Summerhill Waste Management Centre. The $8 million PV system is part of an attempt by the council to reduce its $4 million annual electricity bills, after they doubled over the past two years.
AEMC opens consultation on registry for distributed solar+storage
The Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) is seeking industry input into the setting up of a new register for small-scale battery storage and solar systems. The goal of the registry is to provide the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and network operators more insight into consumer demand.
Construction on 112 MW Karadoc project to begin this month
Beon Energy Solutions is set to begin construction on BayWa r.e.’s 112 MW Karadoc solar farm in Mildura, Victoria. Completion of the project is scheduled for late 2018.
Clean Energy Regulator: record 1.07 GW small-scale solar installed in 2017
It’s official: 2017 was a record year for rooftop PV in Australia. The Clean Energy Regulator announced today that over 1070 MW of small-scale solar was installed by Australian homeowners and businesses in 2017 – representing 41% growth over 2016.
