AEMO backs 248 GW pipeline to counter reliability challenges
The Australian Energy Market Operator says a 248 GW pipeline of proposed generation and storage projects, transmission developments and government energy programs have the potential to address many of the risks outlined in its latest market forecast – if they are delivered to schedule.
Hydrogen buses less efficient than battery models
Italian researchers have compared the performance of hydrogen and electric buses in northern Italy. Meanwhile, Australian company Worley has collaborated with Princeton University to devise a 10-point action plan for Europe’s renewable hydrogen sector.
Storage tender for 2.4 GWh announced for Victoria and SA
A tender for 600 MW / 2.4 GWh of energy storage in Victoria and South Australia has been announced as part of the new national Capacity Investment Scheme – essentially a project underwriting program coordinated by the federal government.
Three major, Indigenous-led solar and storage projects announced for the NT in $1 billion investment plan
Desert Springs Octopus has announced three solar and storage projects between 150 MW and 10 MW for the Northern Territory which it will pursue in partnership with First Nations groups, the Larrakia Nation and Jawoyn Association.
Smart meter reforms including free data access and accelerated rollout to be effected by AEMC
Smart meter reform recommendations have been handed down by the Australian Energy Market Commission, which advised accelerating the national rollout and introducing a mandate for customers to have free access to their real-time data. Reaching 100% penetration by 2030 would provide $507 million (USD 328 million) net benefit value to the NEM, the Commission’s review found.
Victoria launches new neighbourhood battery scheme, announces funding winners
The Victorian government has launched the first funding round of its new neighbourhood battery program and simultaneously announced the winners, mostly “business cases”, from its preexisting scheme.
Australia’s R&D spend continues to shrink despite global clean energy race intensifying
Australia continues to rank poorly for investment in science and research, spending just 1.68% of its GDP – well below the OECD average. This underinvestment is a growing problem for the clean energy industry, with fellow nations actively poaching innovations to capture future manufacturing markets.
Four Queensland towns funded to switch from diesel to solar and batteries
Four western Queensland communities powered by state-owned diesel generators are set to switch to solar and batteries, including Boulia, Burketown, Doomadgee and Windorah.
Rewiring WA: state to receive $3 billion for transmission
Australia’s federal government has allocated $3 billion (USD 1.93 billion) from its Rewiring the Nation program to upgrade Western Australia’s two islanded grids, which lag the eastern states in their renewable energy share.
Renewable PPAs see Sydney councils save $36 million
An alliance of eight Sydney councils have saved their ratepayers over $36 million (USD 23 million) by organising 100% renewable energy power purchasing agreements and working together on local energy projects.
