Oceania

Even as solar researchers strive to squeeze every drop of efficiency from the industry-ruling silicon solar-cell technology, scientists are constantly questing for the next, cheaper, more efficient way of harvesting the sun’s energy to power human endeavours. The appetite for accelerating 2D perovskite solar cell development has just been piqued!

Last week’s announcement by China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) that it has indefinitely suspended all high-level economic dialogue with Australia indicates Beijing’s increasing willingness to target trade in its dispute with Canberra. With China buying around a third of everything Australia exports on a value basis, the downward spiral in Sino-Australian diplomatic relations is clearly of concern.

In a huge data-crunching project designed to inform rooftop solar-export policy and regulations, UNSW technical and social researchers delve into the costs and effectiveness of inverter standards.

Australia’s energy transition from traditional generation to renewable resources is quickening and global energy technology provider Fluence has highlighted that asset operators are turning to automated bidding solutions as they seek to navigate an increasingly complex market.

Australia’s largest petroleum company Ampol has declared its intent to transition away from traditional oil-based fuels, teaming with Ireland’s Fusion Fuel to develop a solar-powered hydrogen production plant at it’s oil refinery in Queensland.

French renewables developer Neoen is pushing ahead with plans to construct a 157 MW wind farm and 100 MW battery project in Queensland’s far north just weeks after federal resources minister Keith Pitt blocked public funding for the project.

For the first time in almost four decades a pumped hydro energy storage plant is set to begin construction with the financial close of Genex Power’s Kidston Clean Energy Hub.

As the world acts on climate change and transitions to renewable energy, Australia has a once-in-a-century opportunity. Rich in renewable resources, we are in pole position to become a renewable energy superpower. But based on Tuesday’s federal budget, when compared to the investment other countries are making, we risk being left behind.

Australian retail property major Vicinity Centres has expanded its renewable energy portfolio, unveiling two more major solar PV rooftop installations as it progresses the rollout of its $73.2 million solar program.

A solar PV and battery energy storage project installed at the University of Adelaide’s Roseworthy campus has only just been switched but already the $7 million clean energy facility is exceeding expectations.