New solar forecasting tool boosts energy efficiency
A breakthrough solar forecasting service developed in the UK looks set to boost efficiency and reduce energy costs. The innovative technology can predict energy generation from solar PV systems up to 72 hours ahead. The tool was developed by Solar Sheffield, the research arm of the UK’s University of Sheffield. Sheffield Solar has worked closely with […]
Farmers driving uptake of clean energy finance: CBA
Increasing numbers of farmers are accessing low-cost clean energy finance to buy more energy efficient equipment. The Commonwealth Bank has partnered with the Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) to provide discounted loans to farmers and agribusinesses. Demand for special loans for energy efficient equipment is increasing, according to research by the Commonwealth Bank. Rising power […]
Bipartisan push for Renewable Energy Target: CEC
The Clean Energy Council (CEC) is urging bipartisan support for a renewable energy target in Australia. An email campaign launched by the renewable energy organisation supports a Clean Energy Target (CET). This is essential to drive new investment in electricity generation, the CEC claims. Despite the Chief Scientist Dr Alan Finkel’s advice to adopt a […]
Study reveals health benefits of solar and wind power
Since 2007, solar and wind power have prevented the premature deaths of up to 12,700 people in the US. That’s according to a study into the health benefits of renewables on the American energy sector, published in Nature Energy. Solar and wind power provide air quality and climate benefits by reducing the need to generate […]
Solar cell building blocks that power up your home
A new, glass building block containing solar cells generates electricity while allowing daylight in. The block, called ‘Solar Squared’, contains solar cells and looks similar to existing glass building blocks. Developed at the University of Exeter in the UK, the Solar Squared block is part of a new area of tech called Building Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV). […]
Solar cell technology: When green energy really is green
We may soon be able to install solar panels from a broad palette of colours, thanks to new nanotechnology. A study published this week in Applied Physics Letters brings us one step closer to a future of custom-colour solar panels. Researchers have discovered how to imprint existing solar panels with silicon nanopatterns that scatter green light at […]
Aussie renters locked out of cheaper solar energy options
Renters continue to be locked out of access to cheaper solar energy, according to Census data analysis. The data shows 2.6 million people in New South Wales can’t access solar energy to offset skyrocketing power bills. The Australian PV Institute carried out the analysis of Census data. It shows 33 per cent of the Coffs […]
New standards set for PV modules from September 1
Recent changes have been made to the listing requirements for PV modules. Manufacturers, importers and installers of PV panels need to be aware of how these changes will impact them. The Clean Energy Council (CEC) maintains a database listing of solar power PV modules that comply with Australian standards. Compliant modules are listed for 2 […]
Industry report shows Australia has healthy solar growth
Solar installations in Australia increased 10% during the second quarter of 2017 compared with Q1, according to the Australian Solar Council. The total number of STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) created was 54% above Clean Energy Regulator targets. Reports also show there were more than 16,000 SWH (solar water heater) and 41,500 solar power PV certificates […]
200 MW of new solar farms transforming former QLD coal town
Edify Energy has announced it will build two new solar farms in the former Queensland coal mining hub of Collinsville. The company has secured finance to construct the 150 MW Daydream Solar Farm and 50 MW Hayman Solar Farm. The Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC) has provided $90 million for both projects, as part of a […]
