In the second quarter of 2026, rooftop solar installations in Australia reached a new record of 1 gigawatt, with many systems being paired with batteries through the Cheaper Home Batteries scheme. Home battery installations also saw a record high, with over 111,000 approved batteries installed. This surge in consumer energy resources is impacting the grid by lowering wholesale prices and decreasing grid demand. Furthermore, large-scale solar investment hit a record high in the quarter, indicating a significant acceleration in the transition towards renewable energy solutions.
Category: Electricity & Industry
Cut Emissions:
– Enhance Efficiency
– Cut Fugitive Emissions
– Shift Production
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From Breakthrough to Battery Factory: Closing the “Missing Middle” in U.S. Battery Commercialization
American research labs have developed innovative battery technologies, but few have been commercially manufactured in the US. The deployment of battery storage is expanding the grid's ability to store and deliver electricity, supporting the clean energy transition. The "missing middle" in the commercialization ecosystem hinders the scaling of promising battery technologies. Shared commercialization infrastructure, like the Carolina Institute for Battery Innovation and Georgia Tech's Advanced Battery Center, can bridge the gap between research and commercial production. Developing domestic manufacturing capacity for batteries is crucial for US economic competitiveness in the clean energy sector. The importance of shared commercialization infrastructure in the Southeast's growing battery industry is highlighted, emphasizing the need for consistent manufacturing processes and quality. This shared infrastructure serves as a training ground for professionals and connects organizations across the battery ecosystem, ultimately reducing risks and making promising technologies more attractive to investors and partners, thus strengthening the US battery manufacturing ecosystem.
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Environmental News Network – Australian-Developed Technology Promises Solution for Methane Emissions
UTS researchers are collaborating with Howden to pilot technology that can reduce methane emissions from mining by over 90%. The project, taking place at UTS Tech Lab, aims to utilize state-of-the-art catalytic process technology and heat exchangers to optimize this unique combination and significantly mitigate methane emissions. In addition to targeting emissions from mines, the project will also focus on reducing methane emissions from landfill sites, waste disposal units, energy providers, and high-density energy users like data centers.
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‘Watershed moment’: Australia launches first offshore wind auction
Australia has recently launched its first offshore wind auction, a significant step forward for renewable energy in the country. Despite previous delays, the auction for offshore wind farms is now in progress, with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese demonstrating strong support for renewable energy and offshore wind projects. This development signals a promising shift towards sustainable energy solutions in Australia's efforts to combat climate change.
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Building Foresight for Earth Science, featuring Lindsey Jacobson
Lindsey Jacobson and the NESSIE team at NASA Langley work to anticipate disruptions in Earth-observing satellite missions to ensure data continuity for end user communities, developing analysis tools and strategies to navigate uncertainties in mission lifetimes and schedules. Their goal is to provide alternative pathways for meeting end-user needs and managing a complex, interdependent portfolio of missions, akin to preparing for hurricane season by having strategies in place before disruptions occur. The importance of evolving complex systems like the electric grid deliberately is emphasized, with a focus on adaptability in the changing landscape of Earth science and the use of AI tools and innovative technologies to stay at the forefront of space exploration. Commercial companies and new space agencies are contributing data, highlighting the need for continued collaboration and advancement in climate solutions.
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California virtual power plant bills clear key legislative hurdle
Climate solutions experts need to be aware of the latest developments in renewable energy technology, such as advancements in solar and wind power. These innovations are crucial for transitioning away from fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, experts should stay informed on policies and initiatives aimed at promoting clean energy and sustainability. Collaboration between governments, businesses, and communities will be essential in implementing effective climate solutions and combating climate change.
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Energy Storage Is Strengthening Reliability. These 5 States Are Leading the Charge.
States like California, Nevada, Illinois, Virginia, Massachusetts, Georgia, and Texas are leading the way in energy storage deployment to meet rising electricity demand, strengthen grid reliability, and deliver affordable power. California has surpassed its energy storage targets with over 21,000 MW of capacity, reducing peak generation demands. Nevada has already exceeded its 2030 energy storage goal, while Illinois is aiming for 3,000 MW by 2030 through the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act. Virginia, Massachusetts, Georgia, and Texas are also expanding energy storage targets and investing in solutions to keep the grid reliable and power affordable for ratepayers. These states serve as examples for policymakers looking to build a more reliable grid through energy storage.
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Power-to-X at Commercial Scale: From Sustainable Aviation Fuel to Everyday Products
AirPlant One in Moses Lake, Washington is leading the way in producing E-Jet SAF and E-Naphtha using Power-to-Liquid technology, reducing lifecycle emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional jet fuel. This innovative approach is compatible with existing aviation infrastructure and has the potential to advance a new era of American manufacturing and sustainable aviation. By securing commercial agreements early and replicating their design in larger facilities, AirPlant is paving the way for a shift towards using abundant, durable inputs like CO2, water, and renewable electricity to create essential molecules. This transformation not only supports distributed production and resilient domestic supply chains but also has the potential to drive a larger industrial shift towards a more sustainable future.
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Quinbrook advances plans for polysilicon factory in Australia
Quinbrook-owned Solquartz has partnered with Townsville City Council to construct Australia's inaugural quartz-to-silicon manufacturing complex at Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct. The project encompasses a polysilicon manufacturing plant fueled by solar and battery energy storage, with the Northern Quartz Campus set to generate silicon products for solar panels and other technologies. With an estimated cost of AUD 8 billion, the initiative is slated to begin operations by 2030, with the goal of positioning Townsville as a center for advanced manufacturing powered by renewable energy.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/08/24/quinbrook-advances-plans-for-polysilicon-production-plant/
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Korean scientists unveil 10 kW chemical adsorption heat pump prototype
Researchers from the Korea Institute of Machinery and Materials have developed a chemical adsorption heat pump for cooling applications in commercial buildings, factories, and data centers. This system uses waste heat to release refrigerant, which is then condensed and evaporated to provide cooling or heating. The system is primarily driven by waste heat, requiring minimal electricity for auxiliary equipment. It achieved a specific cooling power of 346.5 W/kg and uses ammonia as a natural refrigerant, making it environmentally friendly.