02/12/2024
SunDrive Solar and Trina Solar Join Forces to Boost Australian Solar Manufacturing
SunDrive Solar and Trina Solar have formed a majority Australian-owned joint venture to enhance solar manufacturing in NSW, aiming to establish the country as a leader in solar technology and support renewable energy goals. The partnership will produce Australian-made solar panels, create over 300 skilled jobs, and build a local supply chain to reduce reliance on imports. SunDrive's innovative copper metallisation technology will contribute to this effort, and the company plans to seek funding through ARENA’s Solar Sunshot program while collaborating with AGL on solar manufacturing feasibility studies at the AGL Hunter Energy Hub in NSW.
https://www.investregional.nsw.gov.au/news/sundrive-solar-and-trina-solar-join-forces-boost-australian-solar-manufacturing
25/11/2024
NSW establishes ambitious long-duration storage target in preparation for a post-coal energy grid.
The NSW Labor government has set a new target for 12 GWh of long-duration energy storage by 2034, adding to the 16 GWh goal for 2030. Energy Minister Penny Sharpe reaffirmed the eight-hour minimum storage requirement, highlighting the importance of reliability as coal plants retire. While lithium-ion batteries are advancing through Long Term Energy Supply Agreements, pumped hydro projects face higher costs and longer timelines. The government may involve its Energy Services Corporation to reduce risks and support these projects.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/nsw-sets-new-long-duration-storage-target-as-it-readies-for-grid-after-coal/
NSW grant program boosting regional EV charging
The New South Wales Government is installing 17 new electric vehicle (EV) charger sites with 30 charging points across the Central Coast as part of the EV Destination Charging grants program, which aims to support the growing number of EVs traveling to tourist destinations across regional New South Wales. The $20 million program is rolling out over 1300 EV charge ports at more than 500 sites, complementing the 189 fast charging stations funded under the New South Wales Electric Vehicle Strategy. The program has seen applications from tourism businesses and councils, with accommodation operators leading the way in securing funding. Round three of the grant program is now open, targeting EV charging gaps along established regional New South Wales road trip routes.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/nsw-grant-program-boosting-regional-ev-charging/
19/11/2024
New Planning Framework to support NSW’s clean energy future
The NSW Government has developed a new Renewable Energy Planning Framework to promote faster planning decisions, provide investment certainty for industry and host communities, and boost economic benefits for regional communities. The Framework includes guidelines and tools to support the NSW Government's legislated Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap and emissions reduction targets. The new guidelines address wind energy, transmission, solar energy, benefit sharing, and private agreements. The Framework introduces setbacks, updates requirements, and establishes expectations for how benefits from renewable energy projects will flow directly to regions, generating over $400 million to support community.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/new-planning-framework-to-support-nsws-clean-energy-future
WestWind Expands Ambitiously with Plans for a 1.5GW Wind Farm and 2,400 MWh Battery in NSW
The originator of the 1.3 GW Golden Plains wind farm in Victoria has unveiled plans for a 1.5 GW wind project with a 600 MW, 2400 MWh battery in south-western New South Wales. The proposed Lake Victoria wind farm will have up to 203 turbines and occupy around 5% of the 41,700 hectare project area. WestWind has been engaging with stakeholders and the community since 2022 and 2024 respectively, and has committed to a Community Benefit Fund. WestWind is the largest wind energy developer in Victoria.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/westwind-goes-big-again-with-plans-for-1-5gw-wind-farm-and-2400-mwh-battery-in-nsw/
14/11/2024
Battery boom and rebound in wind projects put renewables target back on track
NSW's renewable energy sector is experiencing significant growth, with over 1,400 MW of new large-scale solar and wind projects initiated in Q3 2024, totaling $3.3 billion in investments. Energy storage investments also surged, with eight projects adding 1,235 MW of capacity and 3,862 MWh of storage duration, a 95% increase from the previous year. The pipeline now includes 89 renewable projects, representing 13.9 GW of capacity, and 49 energy storage projects, equating to 9.7 GW / 24.3 GWh Orana BESS, being built by Akaysha Energy in New South Wales, promising to benefit Australian consumers by reducing electricity prices and enhancing grid stability.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/terrific-news-battery-boom-and-rebound-in-wind-projects-put-renewables-target-back-on-track/
Land Agreement Reached for Deep Storage to Establish Broken Hill Mini Grid
The NSW government has signed a land deal near Broken Hill to enable an underground energy storage facility that will replace the city's ageing diesel generators and create a renewable-based mini grid. The 200 MW, 8-hour (1,600 MWh) compressed air storage facility aims to ensure reliability and prevent future outages. The project, to be built by Hydrostor, will be located in a cavern as part of Perilya's Potosi silver mine and is awaiting planning approval and a regulatory change to allow proper reimbursement.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/land-deal-signed-for-deep-storage-to-create-broken-hill-mini-grid-but-network-rules-still-stand-in-the-way/
20 October,2024
NSW EPA CEO advocates for collaborative approach to E-Waste management at Battery Summit
During the address, Tony Chappel, the CEO of the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA), called for a united effort to address the challenges associated with e-waste, particularly in the battery sector, and advised the EPA to continue innovating solutions that facilitate sustainable practices in battery use and disposal. The EPA is currently drafting a Regulatory Impact Statement to evaluate various options to improve battery stewardship, in line with the outcomes of the Environment Ministers meeting in June 2024, and is committed to listening and learning to enhance the accessibility of embedded battery recycling, address battery-related fires, and support a transition to a circular economy.
https://www.energyinnovation.net.au/article/nsw-epa-ceo-advocates-for-collaborative-approach-to-e-waste-management-at-battery-summit
6 October,2024
The new hydropower station is expected to begin operations in December 2024
The planning modification for the Hunter Power Project (HPP) in NSW has been amended, with the power station expected to begin operations in December 2024 using one generator running on diesel during testing and commissioning. The second unit and gas introduction will follow shortly, with full operations expected within a few months. Once fully operational, HPP will primarily run on gas, using diesel as backup to meet peak demand and support Australia's renewable energy transition.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/update-for-snowy-hydro-power-station/
The Port of Newcastle, one of the world's largest coal ports, has broken its own sustainability record for the fourth consecutive year in Clean Energy Products
Since 2021, Port of Newcastle has consistently improved its GRESB(Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark) score and maintained its five-star GRESB rating, achieving an overall score of 97 out of 100 this year, including a score of 100% in climate change reporting, scenario analysis, and risk and opportunity identification. The port's commitment to sustainability is embedded across its business and culture, and it is delivering on a diversification strategy to position itself as a leading hub for sustainable, clean energy products and technologies.
https://www.australianmining.com.au/major-coal-port-celebrates-perfect-climate-score/
Renewables strengthening NSW water supply
The installation involved approximately 5500 ground-mounted solar panels over three hectares adjacent to Balickera Pump Station, positioned in two sections on either side of the Balickera Canal. The project is expected to generate substantial annual savings and benefits, estimated at approximately $700,000 per year. Generating electricity from solar energy is one of several opportunities that can help reduce operational costs and carbon emissions. The power from the solar farm will supply electricity to critical assets such as Grahamstown Water Treatment Plant and Tomago Borefields.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/renewables-bolstering-nsw-water-supply/
29 September, 2024
Proposed Hunter Valley Solar Farm scaled down following community input
The project will be developed by RATCH Australia Corporation, which is an Australian electricity generation company, Australia. It includes a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) with 40 MW / 80 MWh capacity, a high-voltage substation, and a connection to the national grid.The solar farm will cover 203 hectares, with 90 hectares disturbed, and is expected to create 150 full-time jobs during its 18-month construction phase. Once operational, it will power about 19,000 homes in NSW and operate for 30 years. The total investment is estimated at $127 million. The project aims to provide local employment opportunities and supports NSW's decarbonisation targets under the Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap.
https://www.energyinnovation.net.au/article/hunter-valley-solar-farm-scaled-down-following-community-input
NSW Enhances Cruise Ship Visits with Cleaner Energy
New South Wales is launching the $20 million Shore Power project at White Bay Cruise Terminal, providing cruise ships with electricity while docked to reduce emissions. This initiative aims to make the cruise industry more sustainable and is expected to cut emissions by over 4,000 tonnes annually. The project, awarded to Powercon, is set to begin site preparation by the end of 2024 and aims for completion by late 2026, with mandatory shore power use for enabled ships docking at White Bay.The cruise industry contributed $2.75 billion to the NSW economy in 2022-23, supporting approximately 9,000 jobs. This project will improve air quality and reduce noise for residents in Balmain and Rozelle as the area grows. Both NSW and Federal Labor have supported the initiative since 2019, with the Minns Labor Government now leading its rollout. The project is a significant step towards cleaner air and aligns Sydney with global standards in cruise ship sustainability.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/media-releases/nsw-powering-up-for-cleaner-cruise-ship-visits
NSW aims for a million solar battery homes in landmark consumer energy strategy for no coal grid
The government aims to install solar batteries in 1 million households and small businesses by 2035, offering incentives of $1,600-$2,400 and $250 for joining virtual power plants. The strategy includes $238.9 million for a home energy saver program, $30 million for solar investments in apartment buildings, and $435.4 million for bill rebates and energy debt relief. The plan also addresses energy efficiency standards for rental housing.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/nsw-aims-for-a-million-solar-battery-homes-in-landmark-consumer-energy-strategy-for-no-coal-grid/
NSW Renewable Energy Zone (NSW REZ) transitioning to renewable energy, providing new transmission lines and energy hubs to connect renewable projects.
EnergyCo is launching consultations for the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) network infrastructure project, opening registrations for two community reference groups. These groups will represent local communities, including those between the REZ and Bayswater near Muswellbrook, allowing residents, community groups, and First Nations representatives to influence the project's development.The New England REZ is essential for transitioning to renewable energy, providing new transmission lines and energy hubs to connect renewable projects to the existing network. EnergyCo seeks diverse local participants to ensure community needs are addressed during planning. CEO James Hay emphasized the importance of local input for building trust and maximizing community benefits.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/feedback-sought-on-nsw-rez/
15 September, 2024
NSW Government funding for Councils to implement Food and Garden Organics (FOGO) initiatives for green energy
The NSW Government is making mandatory the separate collection of food and garden organics (FOGO) from all households by 2030, with councils able to claim up to $50 per household to support this transition. Funds can be allocated for infrastructure, education, and staffing, with additional payments for areas with many multi-unit dwellings. The NSW EPA (Environment Protection Authority) has launched 'Starting Scraps', a free education program to help households adapt. FOGO recycling benefits communities and the environment, though changing habits can be challenging.
https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/news/media-releases/2024/epamedia240916-new-funding-for-councils-to-go-fogo
$1.25M available for plastic pollution solutions
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) is seeking industry innovators to help combat plastic pollution by developing inventive solutions to address the issue. Universities and government research institutions across the state are encouraged to apply for $1.25 million in grants under the Plastics Research Program (PRP), which aims to support scientific studies and fill knowledge gaps.
https://www.epa.nsw.gov.au/news/media-releases/2024/epamedia240725-$125m-available-for-plastic-pollution-solutions
NSW Gov unveils consumer energy strategy
The New South Wales Government has announced a $290 million plan to enhance access to energy-saving technologies, featuring 50 actions. Key initiatives include a new incentive and rebate scheme, updated home energy ratings, targets for solar and battery usage, improved installation safety, and resources for boosting energy efficiency.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/nsw-gov-unveils-consumer-energy-strategy/
8 September, 2024
New proposals to cut plastic litter by 30% in NSW by 2025
The NSW Government has initiated a new program to decrease plastic waste and encourage environmentally friendly options. Community members, businesses, and industry stakeholders are invited to give feedback on proposals aimed at reducing plastic litter by 30% by 2025. The NSW Plastics: The Way Forward action plan details strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of plastic waste and improve the state's sustainability efforts. In the 2022-23 financial year, NSW generated approximately 891,000 tonnes of plastic waste—an average of nearly 110 kilos per person.
https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/new-proposals-to-cut-plastic-litter-by-30-in-nsw-by-2025/
3/09/2024
Hunter region businesses invited to register interest in Hunter Transmission Project
The Hunter Transmission Project (HTP) is crucial for ensuring a reliable electricity supply in NSW as the remaining coal-fired power stations close. This project aims to deliver clean energy from the new Renewable Energy Zones to consumers across NSW. With a workforce of around 700 people, the HTP will create opportunities for a wide range of trades, services, and professionals.
https://www.energyinnovation.net.au/article/hunter-region-businesses-invited-to-register-interest-in-hunter-transmission-project
27/08/2024
Zen inks deal to buy output from first solar and battery hybrid project in New South Wales
Australian renewables developer and retailer, Zen Energy, has signed an agreement to purchase the majority of electricity generated by the newly announced Quorn Park Hybrid Project. This project, developed by Enel Green Power Australia, will consist of a 98MW solar farm and a 20MW, 40MWh battery, located approximately 10km northwest of Parkes in the central west of New South Wales. The project, which reached financial close in July, is anticipated to become operational in 2026.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/zen-inks-deal-to-buy-output-from-first-solar-and-battery-hybrid-project-in-new-south-wales/
23/08/2024
Huge solar farm and eight hour battery project approved for upper Hunter
Australian renewables developer and retailer, Zen Energy, has signed an agreement to purchase the majority of electricity generated by the newly announced Quorn Park Hybrid Project. This project, developed by Enel Green Power Australia, will consist of a 98MW solar farm and a 20MW, 40MWh battery, located approximately 10km northwest of Parkes in the central west of New South Wales. The project, which reached financial close in July, is anticipated to become operational in 2026.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/huge-solar-farm-and-eight-hour-battery-project-approved-for-upper-hunter/
Partnership struck for NSW REZ
NSW Farmers, EnergyCo, and ACEREZ have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on designing, constructing, and maintaining new transition infrastructure in the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). The goal is to provide New South Wales landholders with a stronger voice in the energy transition. This MoU aims to facilitate clearer communication with landholders throughout the transition to renewable energy in the region, and to develop codes of conduct for accessing property that will host the infrastructure.
https://www.energymagazine.com.au/partnership-struck-for-nsw-rez/
08/08/2024
.Improving energy efficiency standards for appliances
Consumers will soon have access to more detailed information when making appliance purchases, as energy and climate change ministers have agreed to update minimum energy performance standards. The Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council (ECMC) has approved several recommendations from the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, which were supported by the Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) Program.
https://www.energy.gov.au/news-media/news/improving-energy-efficiency-standards-appliances
Joyce celebrates as wind project shelved and new route to New England zone unveiled
The NSW government body continued work on transmission links to what it still hopes will be one of the biggest renewable energy zones in the state. Ark Energy, a subsidiary of metals giant Korea Zinc, had decided to shelve the 340 megawatt (MW) Doughboy wind project near Armidale, because of an apparent change of mind by some of the nine landowners who had signed up for the project.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/the-gig-is-up-joyce-celebrates-as-wind-project-shelved-and-new-route-to-new-england-zone-unveiled/
29/07/2024
PV prices dropping means large solar farms will replace old coal plants in the future.
Australian solar innovator 5B states that the decreasing cost of photovoltaic technology has made the company’s prefabricated Maverick arrays cost-competitive with single axis tracking solar plants, and in some cases even cheaper, depending on the quality of the solar resource. During a presentation at the Large-scale Renewable Generation & Storage Summit in Sydney, 5B deputy CEO Nicole Kuepper-Russell highlighted that the company’s value proposition has significantly improved since module prices fell to just over 10 cents per watt in China in March.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/forget-nuclear-5b-says-plunging-price-of-pv-means-giga-scale-solar-farms-the-future-for-old-coal-plants/
CSIRO Sydney has emphasized the need for Australia to take swift action in order to secure a share of the global minerals market for wind, solar, and electric vehicles (EVs).
Australia has the potential to significantly increase its presence in the global critical minerals market, as indicated by a recent report. However, this can only be achieved if policymakers, researchers, mining firms, and investors take prompt action. The CSIRO issued this warning in a report released on Wednesday, which assessed Australia's processing capabilities for sought-after minerals and the potential opportunities in this industry, currently valued at $482 billion ($US320 billion).
https://reneweconomy.com.au/csiro-says-australia-must-act-quickly-to-secure-share-of-global-minerals-market-for-wind-solar-and-evs/
NSW has established a Net Zero Commission to monitor and track emission targets.
The New South Wales Government has set up the Net Zero Commission, an independent expert body that oversees the state’s efforts to reduce emissions. The commission’s main responsibilities include monitoring the overall progress of the economy towards emission reduction targets and adaptation goals, offering expert advice on strategies to mitigate climate change, and educating stakeholders on promoting climate action.
https://www.energytodaymag.com.au/nsw-establishes-net-zero-commission-to-track-emission-targets/
29/07/2024
PV prices dropping means large solar farms will replace old coal plants in the future.
Australian solar innovator 5B states that the decreasing cost of photovoltaic technology has made the company’s prefabricated Maverick arrays cost-competitive with single axis tracking solar plants, and in some cases even cheaper, depending on the quality of the solar resource. During a presentation at the Large-scale Renewable Generation & Storage Summit in Sydney, 5B deputy CEO Nicole Kuepper-Russell highlighted that the company’s value proposition has significantly improved since module prices fell to just over 10 cents per watt in China in March.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/forget-nuclear-5b-says-plunging-price-of-pv-means-giga-scale-solar-farms-the-future-for-old-coal-plants/
CSIRO Sydney has emphasized the need for Australia to take swift action in order to secure a share of the global minerals market for wind, solar, and electric vehicles (EVs).
Australia has the potential to significantly increase its presence in the global critical minerals market, as indicated by a recent report. However, this can only be achieved if policymakers, researchers, mining firms, and investors take prompt action. The CSIRO issued this warning in a report released on Wednesday, which assessed Australia's processing capabilities for sought-after minerals and the potential opportunities in this industry, currently valued at $482 billion ($US320 billion).
https://reneweconomy.com.au/csiro-says-australia-must-act-quickly-to-secure-share-of-global-minerals-market-for-wind-solar-and-evs/
NSW has established a Net Zero Commission to monitor and track emission targets.
The New South Wales Government has set up the Net Zero Commission, an independent expert body that oversees the state’s efforts to reduce emissions. The commission’s main responsibilities include monitoring the overall progress of the economy towards emission reduction targets and adaptation goals, offering expert advice on strategies to mitigate climate change, and educating stakeholders on promoting climate action.
https://www.energytodaymag.com.au/nsw-establishes-net-zero-commission-to-track-emission-targets/
29/07/2024
PV prices dropping means large solar farms will replace old coal plants in the future.
Australian solar innovator 5B states that the decreasing cost of photovoltaic technology has made the company’s prefabricated Maverick arrays cost-competitive with single axis tracking solar plants, and in some cases even cheaper, depending on the quality of the solar resource. During a presentation at the Large-scale Renewable Generation & Storage Summit in Sydney, 5B deputy CEO Nicole Kuepper-Russell highlighted that the company’s value proposition has significantly improved since module prices fell to just over 10 cents per watt in China in March.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/forget-nuclear-5b-says-plunging-price-of-pv-means-giga-scale-solar-farms-the-future-for-old-coal-plants/
CSIRO Sydney has emphasized the need for Australia to take swift action in order to secure a share of the global minerals market for wind, solar, and electric vehicles (EVs).
Australia has the potential to significantly increase its presence in the global critical minerals market, as indicated by a recent report. However, this can only be achieved if policymakers, researchers, mining firms, and investors take prompt action. The CSIRO issued this warning in a report released on Wednesday, which assessed Australia's processing capabilities for sought-after minerals and the potential opportunities in this industry, currently valued at $482 billion ($US320 billion).
https://reneweconomy.com.au/csiro-says-australia-must-act-quickly-to-secure-share-of-global-minerals-market-for-wind-solar-and-evs/
NSW has established a Net Zero Commission to monitor and track emission targets.
The New South Wales Government has set up the Net Zero Commission, an independent expert body that oversees the state’s efforts to reduce emissions. The commission’s main responsibilities include monitoring the overall progress of the economy towards emission reduction targets and adaptation goals, offering expert advice on strategies to mitigate climate change, and educating stakeholders on promoting climate action.
https://www.energytodaymag.com.au/nsw-establishes-net-zero-commission-to-track-emission-targets/
22/07/2024
Spanish energy giant unveils two huge battery storage projects in NSW, Australia.
Spanish energy company Iberdrola has announced the launch of two new battery storage projects in Australia, marking its largest investment in the country to date. The projects will increase Iberdrola's total capacity to over 1,500 gigawatt hours. The second project, Kingswood, in New South Wales (NSW), has a capacity of 270 MW and 1,080 MWh. Despite the EPBC application describing the Gin Gin project as a 500 MW project, it is officially a 250 MW project. Iberdrola's non-gas firming portfolio in Australia has been relatively small compared to its 2.4 GW of installed renewables.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/spanish-energy-giant-unveils-two-huge-battery-storage-projects-in-australia/
Australia's largest solar farm in NSW has secured significant new contracts to provide power to aged care facilities and breweries.
New England Solar, a 400MW project currently holds the title of Australia's largest operational solar farm. It is set to power residential aged care facilities and contribute to the production of popular beer brands such as Great Northern and Victoria Bitter through new energy offtake deals. The first stage of the New England Solar farm, generating 400MW, is already operational and supplying electricity to New South Wales and Queensland.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/australias-largest-solar-farm-inks-major-new-deals-to-power-aged-care-and-beer/
NSW, and new interstate links to Victoria (VNI-West) and South Australia (EnergyConnect).
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) is soon to decide on the approval of the $5 billion HumeLink transmission project, which is the most expensive project in Australia’s history. The AER has already approved $0.6 billion for early works expenditure and is now reviewing TransGrid’s Application to approve the remaining $4.4 billion for construction. HumeLink is a proposed 365-kilometre, double-circuit 500 kV overhead transmission line from Wagga Wagga to Bannaby (near Goulburn) via Snowy 2.0. Initially named SnowyLink North, HumeLink is intended to provide transmission services for Snowy 2.0, future solar and wind generators in southwest-
https://reneweconomy.com.au/is-humelink-worthwhile-the-5-billion-dilemma-facing-the-energy-regulator/
16/07/2024
NSW Roadmap Tenders Approves 312 MW of New Renewable Energy
Two new projects in the Central-West region have been awarded Long-Term Energy Service Agreements (LTESAs), adding significantly to NSW's expanding pipeline of renewable energy projects. This is part of the ongoing NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap, which aims to transform the energy system. The two new LTESAs have a combined maximum capacity of 312 MW and were awarded through the fourth tender.
https://www.energyinnovation.net.au/article/nsw-roadmap-tenders-greenlights-312-mw-in-new-renewable-energy
Renewable hydrogen tech that turns biomass into green molecules wins CEFC backing
The Australian start-up HydGene Renewables, which utilizes a Macquarie University engineered biocatalyst to convert biomass into "carbon negative" gas, has received a $2 million investment from the federal government's green bank. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation made the investment through the Clean Energy Innovation Fund as part of a $6 million seed raise, which also attracted $2.5 million from UK investor Agronomics. The funding will be used to establish a pilot plant, expand the team, and further research.
https://reneweconomy.com.au/renewable-hydrogen-tech-that-turns-biomass-into-green-molecules-wins-cefc-backing/
CEFC boosts consumer control over Energy use with $50 million Investment in Smart Tech
Smart meters and advanced behind-the-meter (BTM) devices play a crucial role in helping consumers understand and manage their energy usage, leading to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has invested $50 million in Intellihub to facilitate the installation of smart meters and advanced BTM devices, making it easier for consumers to manage their energy systems. With the increasing use of renewable energy, these tools are essential for households as they enable consumers to monitor and control their energy usage, thereby optimizing energy from various sources such as solar panels, home batteries, electric vehicle chargers, air conditioning, and hot water systems, resulting in cost savings and more efficient energy use.
https://www.energyinnovation.net.au/article/cefc-boosts-consumer-control-over-energy-use-with-50-million-investment-in-smart-tech
09/07/2024
The Central West Orana renewable energy zone has received planning approval.
NSW has achieved a significant milestone in the renewable energy rollout with the approval of the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project. This marks the first REZ in Australia to reach this critical step, paving the way for the construction of essential transmission infrastructure to connect large-scale solar, wind, and energy storage projects to the electricity grid. The project is expected to attract up to $20 billion in private investment in solar, wind, and energy storage projects, supporting around 5,000 jobs during peak construction.
https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/news/central-west-orana-rez-transmission-project-gets-planning-approval-australian-first
Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants by NSW Gov
Pumped hydro energy storage offers the capacity to provide significant amounts of long-duration storage, ensuring continuous power supply even during periods of low solar and wind energy generation. These projects play a crucial role in the future energy system of NSW. The $50 million Pumped Hydro Recoverable Grants Program is a key initiative under the NSW Government’s Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap. This program aims to offer recoverable grants to project developers to support the costs of early-stage, detailed feasibility studies for pumped hydro projects.
https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/industry/pumped-hydro-recoverable-grants#pumped-hydro-recoverable-grants
Big Progress for New South Wales' New England Renewable Energy Zone
NSW is making significant strides towards becoming a leading clean energy producer with the New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission project being designated as Critical State Significant Infrastructure (CSSI). This designation indicates that the project is considered crucial for the state due to its economic, environmental, or social impact. The transmission project is of utmost importance for NSW as it will ensure energy security for the state and provide clean and reliable electricity to consumers for many years to come. The designation acknowledges the vital role that the project will play in ensuring uninterrupted power supply for businesses and communities across the state, as well as its critical role in accelerating the transition away from fossil fuels.
https://www.energyco.nsw.gov.au/news/big-step-forward-nsws-new-england-renewable-energy-zone-0
24/06/2024
NSW strengthens First Nations engagement for Renewable Energy Zones
The NSW Government has released two new First Nations Guidelines for the Hunter-Central Coast and the South West Renewable Energy Zones (REZs). These guidelines, developed in collaboration with First Nations Working Groups, aim to facilitate meaningful engagement with Aboriginal communities. They provide direction for project proponents to consult and negotiate with Aboriginal communities regarding projects delivered under the NSW Electricity Infrastructure Roadmap (Roadmap) within their respective REZs. The Roadmap represents the state's 20-year plan to transition the electricity system to one that is more affordable, clean, and reliable.
https://www.energy.nsw.gov.au/news/nsw-strengthens-first-nations-engagement-renewable-energy-zones
18/06/2024
Nitrous oxide emissions in Australia have increased by 40% over the past 40 years
The report indicates that there has been an acceleration in N₂O accumulation in the atmosphere over the past four decades. The growth rates for the years 2020-2022 are 30% higher than any previous year observed since 1980. Agricultural production, particularly the use of nitrogen fertilizers and animal manure, accounted for 74% of the total anthropogenic N₂O emissions in the last decade, followed by fossil fuels, waste and wastewater, and biomass burning. The study, stated that the report offers a comprehensive quantification of global N₂O sources and sinks in 21 natural and anthropogenic categories from countries across the globe.
https://www.csiro.au/en/news/All/News/2024/June/Nitrous-oxide-greenhouse-emissions-increase-by-40-per-cent-in-40-years
