AGL, Hillgrove Resources scrap 250 MW pumped hydro plans
Australia’s biggest power producer AGL and copper miner Hillgrove Resources have agreed to abandon the ambitious pumped hydro project at an old mine pit in South Australia. No longer bound by the project restriction, the owner intends to step up mining and drilling activities at the site.
Mike Cannon-Brookes, 5B Solar and Tesla to bring power to bushfire communities
A new venture funded by the Cannon-Brookes family is looking to install stand-alone solar and battery systems at up to 100 sites around Australia affected by recent bushfires and floods.
Pioneering solar-powered aircraft completes Australian test flight
The PHASA-35 crewless solar and battery-powered aircraft completed its first test flight this week. The pioneering solar-powered aircraft could fill a niche as a cheap alternative to satellites.
City of Adelaide commits to 100% renewable electricity
From July 1, if it is run by the City of Adelaide, it is being powered by wind and solar electricity under a landmark power purchase agreement inked electricity retailer Flow Power.
South Australia’s Home Battery Scheme now open to new builds
The SA Government’s standout Home Battery Scheme is now open to new home buyers and new builds. The expanded Scheme is already off to a flying start with the Stoddart Group promising to install 10,000 solar and battery systems over the next four years to create one of the world’s largest VPPs.
Long read: Nothing simple about GPS
Changing rules mean that many utility-scale PV projects in Australia are facing long delays in achieving full generation – known as “obtaining GPS.” The consequences can be costly.
SA-NSW interconnector gets regulatory go-ahead to unlock slew of renewable energy projects
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has given its tick of approval to the proposed $1.53 billion electricity interconnector between Robertstown in South Australia and Wagga Wagga in New South Wales. The new transmission line holds the promise of reducing power bills in both states by unlocking gigawatts of planned renewable energy projects in its close proximity.
Lake Bonney big battery readies to supply Tesla Australia EV supercharger network
The 25MW/52MWh battery at the Lake Bonney wind farm is in the final stages of testing and close to full commercial operation. Once operational, the big Tesla battery will supply the electric car maker’s Australia EV supercharger network with renewable electricity.
MPower breaks ground on two solar farms in South Australia
Renewables developer MPower has commenced work on two 5 MW solar farms in South Australia expanding its portfolio of smaller utility-scale projects.
Port Augusta 320 MW wind-solar project secures finance
Spanish utility Iberdrola is investing $500 million in a massive hybrid renewable energy project in South Australia. The funding will pave the way for the landmark project developed by DP Energy to proceed following a significant delay.
