The world's first hybrid battery-powered self-unloading bulk carrier, MV Yampu, has begun operations in South Australia, transporting limestone from Yorke Peninsula to Adelaide. The vessel operates on battery power 40% of the time, with plans to eventually operate on 100% battery power, reducing diesel consumption by half a million liters and Scope 1 emissions by 40%. With a capacity of 11,900 deadweight tonnes, the MV Yampu is designed to increase annual limestone transport capacity by 35%, showcasing how practical innovation can deliver environmental benefits while meeting commercial demands and representing a significant step forward in decarbonization efforts.
Tag: South Australia
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Neoen doubles size of big battery in Australia’s biggest renewable energy hub
Neoen is doubling the size of its Goyder battery in South Australia to 454 MW and 1,814 MWh, as part of a major renewable energy hub, to support the state's transition to 100% net renewables by next year. The longer duration batteries will help minimize pricing events and support the energy system's resilience, with Neoen winning contracts with the state government and BHP for firming capacity. Additionally, a megablock battery technology project is being built in Shanghai, highlighting the increasing importance of battery storage in Australia's clean energy future. Neoen, in partnership with Tesla and UGL, is proud to be involved in the state's rapid transition to renewables, with this being their 12th battery project with Tesla in Australia, showcasing the dedication of the team and partners in the renewable energy sector.
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Wholesale power prices plunge as renewables surge, batteries boom, and gas hits 23-year low
Wholesale electricity prices in Australia's main grid dropped significantly in the June quarter, with a nearly 50% decrease attributed to increased renewable energy output, reduced coal production, and low gas generation. The Australian Energy Market Operator highlights record renewable generation and growing battery storage as key factors reshaping the energy market. Grid-scale batteries are storing excess solar energy for evening peaks, leading to lower electricity prices. Despite some challenges like severe wind droughts and transmission constraints, South Australia saw a surge in wholesale power prices due to high prices commanded by gas and diesel generators. The grid is evolving rapidly with increased daytime demand driven by factors like home battery charging and data center load, with battery storage often setting wholesale prices lower than gas.
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Virtual home-energy trading study lowers costs, boosts access to clean power
Deakin University conducted a trial on a virtual energy network (VEN) that allows households and small businesses to buy and sell solar and battery power, involving 300 sellers and buyers from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, and South Australia. The project aims to create a more inclusive and flexible energy system in Australia, supporting the transition to net zero emissions by enabling people with solar power to sell their surplus energy and helping more Australians access clean energy. The initiative is supported by Energy Locals, Enosi's Powertracer software, and funded through Energy Consumers Australia's Grants Program, resulting in cheaper electricity rates and providing a pathway for consumers without solar panels.
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Australia’s biggest solar battery hybrid projects lock in finance in landmark deal to power heavy industry
Two of the biggest solar and battery hybrid projects in Australia, Smoky Creek and Guthrie's Gap, have reached financial close with the backing of 14 lenders. These projects will provide 600 MW of solar and 600 MW and 2,400 MWh of battery storage to help power aluminium smelters and refineries in Queensland as part of Rio Tinto's plan to transition to green energy and storage by 2029. The federal government's Capacity Investment Scheme is supporting the projects, which are crucial for reaching renewable energy targets and improving reliability as aging thermal generation retires. Edify is also developing the Hill wind farm in South Australia and the Jinbi solar farm in Western Australia, with strong community support and a focus on creating up to 800 jobs during construction, local procurement, and skills training. The financing package for these projects is a first for Australia and will set a foundation for future renewable energy projects, leaving a positive legacy in the region through a community benefits program.
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Construction starts on biggest battery in Australia’s most advanced renewable grid
Alinta is building South Australia's largest battery, the Reeves Plains project, with a first stage sized at 250MW and 1,000MWh, aiming to reach gigawatt scale storage with a second stage planned to double its size. This project is part of South Australia's push towards 100% net renewables by next year, powered by wind and solar, displacing plans for a gas-fired power station at Reeves Plains. The focus on battery storage is a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions. Climate change experts, including science and business journalists specializing in climate change-related health and environmental issues, play a crucial role in raising awareness and promoting solutions to address climate-related challenges.
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Australian company says its magnetic technology could be key to its green steel ambitions
DryFlow Magnetics, an Australian company, is launching a commercial pilot at an iron ore mine in South Australia using magnetic technology to extract higher-grade iron ore for green steel production. This technology aims to reduce water usage by 95% and cut emissions by 90% compared to traditional steelmaking processes. With government support and investment in the industry, the company plans to scale up its technology to process 200 tonnes of material per hour, making Australia a dominant supplier of high-purity iron for green steel production.
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Grid batteries reach stunning new peak of 44 pct of evening demand in world’s fourth biggest economy
California and Australia are experiencing significant growth in grid-scale battery storage, with California reaching a new peak of 44% of evening demand and Australia's South Australia reaching 30%. The rapid rollout of battery storage in California over the last five years has allowed for a reduction in reliance on gas and the ability to supply a significant share of demand throughout the evening. With a total capacity of over 17 GW in California, grid-scale batteries are proving to be a key solution in transitioning towards a more sustainable energy system.
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Peak load tipped to double as industries flock to Australia’s world-first 100 pct renewables grid
South Australia is experiencing a surge in electricity demand due to the growth of industries attracted by its high level of renewables. With around 75% of its electricity already sourced from wind and solar, the state aims to achieve 100% "net" renewables by next year. To support this expansion and accommodate increased load from industries like mining and data centers, ElectraNet predicts the need for new transmission lines. Projects such as the south-east transmission line and the proposed Northern Transmission project are crucial in connecting new generation and storage to existing customer demand, supporting electrification, and facilitating industrial expansion. Giles Parkinson emphasizes the importance of these initiatives in enabling clean energy growth in South Australia.
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South Australia on path to 100 pct net renewables next year after Labor landslide and Liberal backflip
South Australia's Liberal government, which aimed for 100% net renewables, lost power to Labor in 2022 and was further weakened in the 2026 election due to indecision on net zero and the energy transition. Labor, now in charge, plans to achieve the 100% renewables target by 2027 through new wind and solar farms, batteries, and a connection to New South Wales. South Australia will become the first gigawatt-scale grid to reach this milestone using wind and solar as the sole renewable sources, supported by batteries and gas-fired generation. Additionally, the state is leading in consumer energy integration, attracting interest from energy-intensive industries and presenting a significant economic opportunity for the development of renewable resources and new industries.