Renewable Energy Connections

Australia plans to improve grid stability and flags caps to renewable energy connections. In light of rapid uptake of renewables, Australia is looking to improve its power grid’s stability to counter generation risks and overburdening of the transmission system. The country’s transmission system and grid lines were initially developed for coal-generated energy. However, nearly two-thirds […]

Biomass and baseload power: The reality of turning the electricity grid green

If ageing coal-fired and gas power stations are the ugly stepsisters of the electricity world, most renewables are the carriage that turns into a pumpkin after midnight (or as the sun goes down). We need more than hope and magic dust as we transition away from traditional fossil fuel generators to a new energy economy. […]

The post 2025 energy market must plan for a grid without coal

Are we ready for a power grid without coal? Australia’s electricity grid still relies on coal-fired generation. But with coal plants retiring and more renewables coming into the mix, that needs to change. Liddell power station is closing in 2023, and Yallourn in 2028. The way things are going we should expect others to close […]

Hunt on for fixes for weak electricity grids

Fix weak electricity grids. Victoria’s north-west has been chosen as the case study for a new project looking for ways to connect renewable energy to weaker parts of the electricity network. Monash University researchers selected the West Murray region because its lack of system strength is holding back development of new projects, despite the climate […]

Lessons in prioritising renewables grid

South Australia’s key lessons in prioritising a renewables grid over fossil fuels. South Australia offers vital lessons for other jurisdictions transitioning from a fossil fuel-based electricity grid to a low emissions, high penetration renewables grid. Coal was phased out in 2016. Today, South Australia’s grid is dominated by wind and solar backed up by battery […]