Green roof improves solar panel efficiency by 3.6% on average
The comparison of two solar cladded roofs in Sydney, Australia, one bare beneath its panels and the other adorned with native grasses and plants, has found the panels on the green roof were, on average, 3.63% more efficient, producing an average daily output 13% greater than the conventional roof. The improvements are believed to stem from the lower temperatures on the green roof, thanks to its plants – which also provided a plethora of additional benefits.
Solar-accelerated carbon-dioxide splitting to recycle a deadly greenhouse gas
Carbon never goes away, says Associate Professor Tianyi Ma, but if industrial carbon dioxide emissions can be cleanly, renewable catalyzed into chemicals and fuels that we need, we can reduce the overall GHG burden on the earth’s atmosphere.
Australian researchers develop bifacial solar cell with 96.3% bifacial factor
Australian National University researchers claim to have set a world record for bifacial solar cell efficiency that they say could boost the energy output of solar farms by 30%.
Novel salt solution for lithium-ion battery fires
Australian researchers have tested a novel lithium salt for high-voltage lithium batteries in electric vehicles and grid-scale storage systems. They claim the salt is less hazardous than conventional battery materials.
AI-powered bidding platform for Australia’s biggest solar farm
The operators of Australia’s largest solar farm have turned to a software-based bidding solution as they seek to optimize dispatch and manage the facility’s market trading and power purchase commitments amid increasing market volatility.
Australian science agency looks to space to test next-gen PV cell tech
The Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation is pushing the limits of flexible solar PV cells by partnering with Australian startup Space Machines Company to test the technology in space.
Australia to host 600 MW/2400 MWh storage facility
Renewables developer Syncline Energy has revealed plans for a 600 MW/2400 MWh battery storage project near Melbourne.
World’s largest ‘grid-forming’ battery to begin construction in Australia
Australia’s AGL Energy will soon own the world’s largest ‘grid-forming’ battery, with construction to begin on its new 250 MW/250 MWh project later this year on Torrens Island, South Australia. Finland’s Wärtsilä will supply the battery, while Germany’s SMA will provide inverters.
Synchronous condensers to lift constraints on renewables in South Australia
South Australia has shown how to rapidly transition to renewable energy generation, but cracks have appeared in its system. ElectraNet has deployed synchronous condensers to smooth out the gaps and keep the state grid running reliably.
Australian Energy Market Operator points to inverters as possible path to 100% renewables
The AEMO is looking to fast-track the deployment of advanced inverter capabilities to support Australia’s “once-in-a-lifetime transition” to a power system featuring reduced synchronous generation, such as coal-fired generation.
