Queensland's grid has reached 80% renewables, driven by solar power, wind, and hydro, despite heavy coal dependence. New projects are fueling the growth of renewables, with households and businesses embracing rooftop solar and batteries. The state government plans to continue burning coal for another two decades, but grid scale batteries are being built throughout the state. Meanwhile, NSW has a slightly higher coal capacity but posted new battery storage records, indicating a shift towards cleaner energy solutions.
Tag: Queensland
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Giant copper project signs deal for Australia’s biggest off-grid hybrid renewables facility
Harmony Gold and Aggreko have partnered to develop a renewable power facility at the Eva copper mine project in Queensland, Australia. The facility will consist of a 118 MWp solar farm, a 250 MWh battery, and a 104 MVA thermal power plant, with the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2035. Future plans may involve incorporating wind energy and connecting to the grid through the Copperstring transmission project. This long-term commitment to renewable energy showcases a significant step towards sustainable practices in the mining industry.
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Edify Energy awards EPC contracts for 1.8 GW of solar and storage in Australia
Renewables developer Edify Energy has awarded DT Infrastructure the EPC contracts for two massive solar and battery energy storage projects in Queensland, Australia, totaling 900 MW of solar and 900 MW/3,600 MWh of battery storage. The use of grid-forming inverter technologies will enhance power network stability and resilience. These projects are expected to significantly contribute to the National Electricity Market and support the transition towards an affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy future. Construction is set to begin soon with a target delivery and operations date of 2028, showcasing a major step towards climate solutions in the renewable energy sector.
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First stage of Australia’s second-biggest battery starts commercial operations in the Sunshine State
The first stage of the Supernode battery in Australia, developed by Quinbrook and managed by Origin Energy, has commenced commercial operations, with plans to expand to a 780 MW, 3,074 MWh capacity to support Queensland households. Origin has secured contracts for 100% of capacity across Stages 1 and 2, showcasing the crucial role of battery storage in the energy transition. The project serves as a model for large-scale storage supporting power system evolution, emphasizing the use of local labor and equipment. Additionally, the article offers a daily newsletter for clean energy news, attracting over 28,000 subscribers.
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A grid with no smokestacks: Octopus snaps up biggest battery project and solar hybrid in push to replace coal
Octopus Australia, a leading clean energy investment company, has acquired two major battery projects in Australia – one in NSW and the other in Queensland, with large-scale storage capacity and solar-battery hybrid systems. The company aims to replace coal with clean energy solutions like solar, wind, and batteries, positioning themselves as a key player in the renewable energy market. Octopus plans to build a "ring of batteries" around Sydney and remains optimistic about the market in Queensland. They prioritize local community involvement, job creation, and building long-term relationships while continuing to grow their portfolio and deliver on their promises in the renewable energy sector.
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Korea drops secures grid connection approval for its first big battery in Australia
Hanwha Energy Australia's 100 MW/200 MWh battery energy storage system in southeast Queensland has received grid connection approval, aiming to store surplus solar energy and support 15,000 households during peak demand. The project will provide critical grid services, enhancing Queensland's grid resilience and supporting renewable energy growth for a more sustainable power system. Additionally, Hanwha Energy Australia is actively involved in other clean energy projects across Australia.
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Rooftop solar and batteries on centre stage: Six key graphs from AEMO’s transition roadmap
The Australian Energy Market Operator has released the draft of its 2026 Integrated System Plan, outlining the transition of Australia's main grid to renewables and storage. The plan highlights the growth of rooftop solar and the potential for an accelerated transition to green energy, with a focus on addressing transmission concerns and the continuation of coal in Queensland. AEMO is unsure how to keep coal running until 2049 due to aging coal-fired power stations being a threat to grid reliability, but the concept of "baseload" is expected to be phased out. The grid is projected to reach 82% renewables by 2030, leading to a significant drop in emissions and paving the way for further emission cuts in other sectors as they electrify and transition to renewables.
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Australia’s most advanced renewable grid is its most secure, but NSW must scramble as it nears “no coal” scenario
South Australia is leading the way in renewable energy with a 75% share of wind and solar, making it the most secure state grid in Australia. The state has successfully transitioned away from coal-fired power stations and has implemented innovative solutions such as the Tesla big battery and synchronous condensers. South Australia is on track to reach 100% net renewables and will be able to run its grid without gas plants. However, other states like NSW and Victoria are facing challenges with the closure of aging coal-fired generators and are scrambling to secure replacement capacity for critical grid services. AEMO warns of potential risks and the need for further action to ensure system stability in the future. The closure of coal-fired power plants in Australia, such as the one in NSW, is expected to lead to a "credible no coal scenario" by 2031/32. Similar closures are planned in Victoria and Queensland in the coming years. The transition to a high renewable grid is essential for Australia to meet its 2030 and 2035 climate targets. AEMO warns that new investments and reforms are needed to maintain system security during this transition, including utilizing renewable energy sources like rooftop solar. Industry and governments are working together to manage the transition points and ensure system security.
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Man behind Australia’s most powerful battery named one of Time’s climate titans, with Pope and King Charles
Nick Cater, CEO of Akaysha Energy, has been named one of Time Magazine's Climate100 for his role in building the Waratah Super Battery, the most powerful battery in Australia. The battery is acting as a "shock absorber" to help fill gaps created by coal closures. Carter emphasizes the importance of bipartisan support for climate solutions and advocates for a global carbon platform and market. Akaysha is involved in building several battery projects in Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria to address energy storage challenges and contribute to resolving climate issues. Supporting independent media like Renew Economy can help promote accurate information on climate solutions.