Andrew Forrest's Pilbara Energy is proposing the Bonney Downs wind farm in Western Australia's Pilbara region, aiming to halve the number of turbines while maintaining a target installed renewable energy capacity of 2.1 GW. The project, referred for federal environmental approval, seeks to decarbonize iron ore operations with potential use of Nabrawind self-erecting tower technology. Separate from the Nullagine Pilot Wind Farm, this controlled action under the EPBC Act includes plans for post-construction habitat rehabilitation to restore fauna habitat lost during construction, focusing on re-establishing critical habitat for EPBC Act listed species.
Author: Reneweconomy.com
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“Brilliant economics”: Offtake deal seals delivery of Australia’s biggest solar-battery hybrid project
Renewable energy retailer Flow Power has signed a power purchase agreement with Octopus Australia's Blind Creek solar farm and battery project in New South Wales, one of the largest hybrid projects in Australia. The DC-coupled system allows solar to charge the battery directly, improving efficiency and enabling energy storage during low-price periods. The project aims to strengthen grid reliability, support the retirement of coal stations, and deliver renewables when needed to reduce peak price events. This pioneering solar hybrid initiative, backed by major investors, is set to revolutionize the energy market and contribute to a cleaner energy future in Australia by mid-2028.
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Offshore wind installation tech promises to change logistics game, cut reliance on deep-water ports
Feederdock, a next-generation offshore wind installation solution developed by ONP Management and Renewable Resources International, splits installation across two vessels to accommodate turbines over 25 MW and foundations weighing 2,800 tonnes. This technology eliminates the need for deep-water ports, reducing constraints on offshore wind deployment, shortening construction schedules, and delivering cost savings. Energy Estate is supporting Feederdock's entry into the Australian and New Zealand markets, emphasizing the importance of creating an ecosystem for the industry to thrive and avoiding international vessel scarcity. A holistic approach is needed to support offshore wind projects, with the opportunity to subscribe to a daily newsletter for the latest clean energy news.
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Powerful new rooftop solar panel promises system sizes “previously out of reach”
Chinese solar manufacturer Aiko has launched a new, high-powered solar panel approved by the Clean Energy Council for sale in Australia. The ABC 60-cell module offers up to 545 kW of generating capacity, enabling homeowners to maximize system capacity on small rooftops, especially as they incorporate batteries, EV charging, and other electric loads. This innovative panel not only increases output and energy yield but also has the potential to boost electricity revenue for commercial rooftops. Aiko's design reduces the number of modules required, resulting in cost and installation time savings for users looking to enhance their renewable energy solutions.
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Port pitching for offshore wind hub says turbine trade could more than double its shipping traffic
The Port of Hastings in Victoria is set to become Australia's first offshore wind hub, doubling its shipping traffic and supporting the state's renewable energy goals by 2040. The Victorian Renewable Energy Terminal project, facing environmental concerns, aims to deepen water depth to accommodate offshore wind vessels and create thousands of jobs. With the potential for an additional 200 vessel visits per year, the project is seen as a key opportunity for the port's growth and the advancement of renewable energy in the region, contributing to a sustainable future.
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Co-ownership vs consultation: Landmark report proposes faster, cheaper path to renewables
The Community Power Agency (CPA) report emphasizes the benefits of renewable energy developers partnering with communities, rather than just consulting with them, to expedite planning processes, reduce opposition, and provide financial advantages. The Power in Partnership Guide outlines nine models for collaboration, such as co-ownership and community energy gardens, to enhance community acceptance of renewable energy projects and prevent conflicts. The example of the Bulabul battery project in Wellington, NSW, underscores the importance of community involvement in seizing opportunities in the evolving energy sector. With Australia aiming to increase renewable energy to 82% by 2030, fostering successful partnerships with communities is deemed essential for achieving this target and promoting regional development.
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New modelling shows renewable electricity can meet NZ future demand
The government's plan to import LNG for energy security in New Zealand is questioned due to price volatility and the country's goal of achieving 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030. Analysis shows that investing in renewable energy generation and storage systems can meet future demand and exceed it, with offshore wind projects reducing the need for hydro electricity generation. The article discusses the use of excess grid power for pumped hydro storage and highlights the need for additional long-term storage capacity, such as the proposed pumped-hydro project at Lake Onslow. The country already has a regulatory roadmap for battery systems, with significant renewable generation and battery storage projects in development, suggesting that the electricity sector may not actually need the new LNG terminal infrastructure. Storage capacity, both short-term and long-term, is crucial for stabilizing a 100% renewable grid.
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Offshore wind project says it’s “fully prepared” as it heads into full environmental assessment
The Blue Mackerel offshore wind farm project in Gippsland, Victoria has advanced to the next stage of federal environmental assessment, involving the installation of up to 70 wind turbines 10 km off the coast. The project aims to minimize environmental impacts and address community concerns about visual impact, with the developer committed to delivering a scientifically rigorous environmental impact statement. This project is crucial in transitioning the state and national grid off coal, highlighting the importance of renewable energy solutions in combating climate change.
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Last panel goes up at first solar-battery hybrid project to connect to Australia’s main grid
Australia's first large-scale solar-battery hybrid facility, the Quorn Park Hybrid Solar facility in western NSW, has been completed with the installation of its final panel. The project combines 80 MW of PV generating capacity with a 20 MW, 40 MWh battery, connected to the main grid, aiming to deliver clean energy to power around 45,000 homes in NSW annually. By storing solar energy during the day and dispatching it during evening peaks, the facility is expected to strengthen grid reliability and marks a milestone in Australia's transition towards advanced hybrid renewable energy projects.