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.
Tag: Victoria
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New solar and battery hybrid project sets ball rolling on environmental approvals after CIS tender win
The Corop solar farm in Victoria, a new solar and battery hybrid project, has been chosen as a winner in a federal government tender. With 440 MW of solar PV and 800 MWh of battery storage, the project will span 1,100 hectares of farmland and include 1.19 million solar panels and 208 BESS containers. Since 2019, the project has been undergoing public consultation and has been referred for environmental assessment. This innovative project showcases the potential for large-scale renewable energy solutions to help combat climate change.
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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.
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Victoria fast-tracks approval of major solar battery hybrid project, and new big battery in Latrobe Valley
The Victoria government has approved two major renewable energy projects, including a large solar-battery hybrid and an expansion of an existing battery in the state's coal heartland. The Meadow Creek solar farm will combine a 332 MW solar facility with a 250 MW, 1,000 MWh battery, while the Tramway Roads battery will be a 300 MW, 1,200 MWh project owned by Eku Energy. These projects are part of Victoria's push towards reaching 95% renewables by 2035, with a focus on solar battery hybrids to address cost increases and planning issues facing wind energy projects. The Meadow Creek project has faced community concerns but has addressed issues such as fire risk, water management, and visual impact through consultations with stakeholders. Giles Parkinson, founder and editor-in-chief of Renew Economy and The Driven, provides the latest clean energy news through their free daily newsletter.