Batteries overtake pumped hydro in Australia’s National Electricity Market
Grid-scale battery storage systems have surpassed the charging capacity of pumped hydro in Australia’s national grid, following the recent completion of two new battery projects, totaling 150 MW.
Average rooftop solar system sizes surpass 9 kW in Australia
The average size of rooftop solar systems installed in Australia has climbed to a new high, with data analysis from the Australian Energy Council showing the typical unit size is now averaging more than 9 kW.
Horizon focusing on vanadium flow batteries for energy storage
Horizon Power, Western Australia’s regional power supplier, has revealed plans to deploy a 78 kW/220 kWh vanadium flow battery.
Australian developer plans 900 MW of solar for green hydrogen project
Traditional owners in Western Australia will partner with advisory firm Pollination to develop what could be Australia’s largest solar farm. The move is part of plans to build a gigawatt-scale green hydrogen and ammonia project in the northwestern part of the country.
Winter westerlies drive differences in rooftop solar across eastern Australia
In a new weekly update for pv magazine, Solcast, a DNV company, presents the solar irradiance data it collected for Australia in June. The data showed that Eastern New South Wales received irradiance about 15% above normal for June, whilst central and western Victoria received totals 10-20% lower than normal.
Japan’s Inpex secures 50% share of Enel’s Australian solar portfolio
Japanese oil and gas supplier Inpex has struck a deal to buy 50% of Enel Group’s Australian renewables platform, Enel Green Power Australia. The deal gives Inpex joint control of a solar portfolio featuring 254 MW of installed capacity and another 170 MW of renewables under construction.
Site works begin for 800 MWh battery in Australia
Construction has started on Western Australia’s second grid-scale battery, as the state government looks to scale up energy storage capacity to support its planned transition from coal-fired power to renewables.
Neoen wins big battery tender in Australia
French developer Neoen has won a 197 MW storage contract with the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO). The deal is for the Collie big battery in Western Australia, with the first phase set to start commercial operations by October 2024.
Australian battery tech startup targets US market with fresh funds
Sicona Battery Technologies, an Australian battery materials startup, has secured financial backing from international investors to enhance its silicon-composite anode technology for lithium-ion batteries, allowing it to expedite its commercial development plans in the US market.
Australia commissions first big battery at former coal site
Engie, Eku Energy, and Fluence have commissioned the Hazelwood big battery, Australia’s first large-scale battery project, at the former coal site of a power station in the state of Victoria. The 150 MW battery claims several Australian firsts in its design and operation.
