AGL Energy is set to commission a new 500 MW, 1000 MWh battery at the site of a shuttered coal plant in New South Wales by mid-year, with support from federal and NSW governments. The Liddell battery will help firm up the state's grid as more coal exits and renewable energy comes online, part of a trend of transforming coal generation sites into battery storage hubs in NSW. This transition reflects the need to move away from aging coal-fired power stations, with the aim of supporting reliable renewable energy for years to come. The milestone at Liddell coincides with a new policy from the Minns government regarding coal mining, highlighting the shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
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Scientists demonstrate quantum battery prototype with rapid charging
Scientists from CSIRO, RMIT University, and the University of Melbourne have developed a quantum battery prototype that charges, stores, and discharges energy based on quantum mechanics principles, offering rapid and scalable energy storage. Unlike conventional batteries, quantum batteries charge faster as they get larger, showcasing the potential to revolutionize energy storage and usage. The prototype, wirelessly charged with a laser, retains stored energy for a significantly longer time than it takes to charge, with the goal of extending energy storage time to make them commercially viable in the future. This innovation could play a crucial role in advancing sustainable energy solutions and combating climate change.
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Vena Group and InCommodities sign $142m battery deal
In a $200m agreement, Vena Group has partnered with InCommodities to establish the Bellambi Heights Battery Energy Storage System in New South Wales, Australia. This initiative is designed to enhance grid stability in response to the increasing expansion of renewable energy generation in the region. The BESS will play a crucial role in utilizing surplus solar power to supply approximately 280,000 homes with electricity. InCommodities' investment demonstrates a long-term dedication to the Australian energy market and supports the growing emphasis on renewable investment and strengthening critical grid infrastructure.
https://www.power-technology.com/news/vena-group-incommodities-142m-battery-deal/
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As Fossil Fuel Costs Rise, Renewable Energy And Storage Shine
Renewable energy and energy storage are dominating new utility-scale power generation capacity in the US, providing opportunities for energy consumers to buffer against fossil fuel price spikes. New York and New Jersey are leading the way in developing robust renewable energy profiles, with a focus on incentives for homeowners and innovative projects like floating solar power plants. Virtual power plants are being utilized to coordinate demand and supply among small devices, helping utilities avoid costly new gas plant construction. States like Massachusetts are setting ambitious targets for offshore wind projects and new solar and storage capacity by 2035, aiming to achieve significant savings through renewable energy initiatives. Despite uncertainties surrounding factors like natural gas costs and federal energy policy changes, US states are continuing to promote renewable energy transitions with incentives for energy storage, virtual power plants, and new wind and solar projects.
https://cleantechnica.com/2026/03/17/as-fossil-fuel-costs-rise-renewable-energy-storage-shine/
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Pii Energy unveils plug-in 1.2 kW solar, 2 kWh home system
Pii Energy has introduced the Edge 2000, a plug-in solar-plus-storage kit priced at around USD 2,400, catering to renters and apartment residents. The kit features 1.2 kW of solar panels, a 2 kWh battery backup, smart outlets, a Raspberry Pi-driven smart system controller, and all necessary wiring for installation. With the ability to detect breaker masking conditions for safety, this innovation provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for residential solar energy needs.
https://www.pv-magazine.com/2026/03/16/pii-energy-unveils-plug-in-1-2-kw-solar-2-kwh-home-system/
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SwitchedOn podcast: What regional communities really want from renewables
Renewable energy projects in regional Australia are prompting the introduction of community benefit guidelines by governments, with mixed results. Kim Mallee from the Community Power Agency stresses the need for community input in shaping these benefits. Drawing on international examples, she advocates for ownership, co-investment, and community-led models to create deeper, longer-term value. The CPA's report, "Power in Partnership," highlights how these approaches could foster genuine partnership in Australia's energy transition.
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When Fossil Fuel Supplies Falter, Interest In Renewables Increases
Cuba has rapidly transitioned to solar and wind power with assistance from China, increasing solar energy generation to over 20 percent in just 12 months to address US sanctions cutting off oil supply from Venezuela. The country aims to achieve energy independence by 2028 with up to 600 megawatts of battery storage, rendering the US oil blockade economically irrelevant. This transition showcases one of the fastest energy transitions achieved by a developing nation and could serve as a model for other countries facing energy crises. The conflict in the Middle East has also led to an increase in interest in personal renewable energy solutions, such as solar installations, home batteries, and EV chargers, signaling a potential tipping point for the world to embrace renewables.
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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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Bridging the Methane Gap: Financing Abatement in China
Methane emissions in China account for a significant portion of global warming, and the country's updated NDC now includes all greenhouse gases, showing a stronger policy focus on addressing methane alongside carbon dioxide. While there are feasible solutions to reduce methane emissions in various sectors, the lack of structured financial support is hindering the scaling of abatement projects. To close the methane finance gap, the report recommends incorporating methane into future NDCs, enhancing monitoring systems, and mobilizing finance to turn abatement projects into bankable initiatives. China's experience in addressing methane challenges can offer valuable lessons for other emerging economies and countries in the Global South, emphasizing the importance of investing in energy, agriculture, and waste projects to reduce methane emissions.
https://www.climatebonds.net/news-events/blog/bridging-methane-gap-financing-abatement-china
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The Epstein War Breathes New Life Into Green Hydrogen Industry
US President Trump's war on Iran has caused fossil energy costs to rise, impacting natural gas markets in Europe and the US, leading to a renewed focus on green hydrogen projects. In Andalusia, Spain, a joint venture between H2Pro and Doral Hydrogen is moving forward with plans for a 50-megawatt off-grid green hydrogen project. This project aims to produce hydrogen entirely from off-grid solar power for blending into the existing natural gas pipeline and connecting with the forthcoming H2Med hydrogen pipeline for export. The Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs program in the US, aimed at kickstarting the green hydrogen supply chain, is facing challenges due to funding withdrawal under the Trump administration, impacting farmers who could benefit from sustainable fertilizer produced with green hydrogen.