New research finds Australia’s lithium deposits likely extend across eastern states
New research from the University of Sydney pinpointing the concentration and distribution of lithium in Australian soils has found elevated levels in Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria.
RayGen officially opens 4 MW ‘solar hydro’ power plant
Australian energy technology startup RayGen has officially opened a 4 MW solar and long-duration energy storage project in Victoria, describing it as the world’s “highest efficiency PV project” operating at utility scale.
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.
Atmos adds 112 MW solar farm to renewables portfolio
Australian clean energy outfit Atmos Renewables has acquired the 112.5 MW Karadoc Solar Farm in northwest Victoria after striking a deal with German-headquartered renewable energy developer BayWa r.e..
Victoria pushes switch from gas to all electric
The Victorian government has announced a new $10 million (USD 6.7 million) grants program to provide bulk rebates for the installation of solar panels, solar hot water systems and heat pumps as part of plans for all new homes in the state to be 100% electric from 2024.
Eku begins work on 400 MWh battery to support Victorian storage targets
Energy storage specialist Eku Energy says the 200 MW/400 MWh Rangebank Battery being developed on the outskirts of Melbourne will be operational by the end of next year with early site works having now commenced on the grid-scale project.
Melbourne researchers target MW scale with proton battery technology
A team of engineers at Melbourne’s RMIT University have developed a rechargeable ‘proton battery’, claiming the technology has the potential, with further development, to store more energy than currently available lithium-ion batteries.
Solar-backed stand-alone power systems put to test in Victoria
Victorian network operator AusNet Services’ independent subsidiary Mondo Power has completed the installation and commissioning of 17 stand-alone power systems featuring PV and battery energy storage as part of its inaugural trial of the off-grid technology.
CleanPeak to begin construction of 40 MW Wangaratta Solar Farm
Australian commercial solar outfit CleanPeak Energy continues to build out its utility-scale PV portfolio, announcing it has achieved financial close on the 40 MWp Wangaratta Solar Farm being developed in northern Victoria.
Ballooning connection and TNSP charges frustrate battery projects, vexation over monopolies
A sharp rise in connection and terminal station charges is stalling storage from coming online, according to an Australian developer. While the price hikes could be attributable to a quagmire of complications the industry currently faces, the developer questioned whether Australia’s TNSP monopoly system is a contributing factor.
