Energy Matters Video News – Episode 20 – December 6, 2010
In this episode, Virginia covers outrage from solar supporters over claims solar is the cause of a $700 million blowout in electricity bills, Sydney Theatre Company switches on its Suntech Pluto rooftop solar farm, a carbon price won’t wreck Australia’s economy and the latest Australian Electricity Generation Technology Costs report.
Australian Solar Institute Funds New CSIRO Solar Projects
The Australian Solar Institute (ASI) has contributed 5.65 million dollars towards three new CSIRO projects aimed at making solar energy price comparable with fossil fuel.
Renewable Energy Forecasting System Developed In Australia
A researcher from Central Queensland University believes he has developed a renewable energy forecasting system that could be used in conjunction with a “smart” electricity grid.
Solar Credits Rebate Reduction : Energy Matters
The Australian government’s announcement yesterday to bring forward the phaseout of financial support for home solar power under the Solar Credits program has stirred up the usual controversy and questioning of Australia’s commitment and approach to a clean energy future.
Electricity Price Rise For Victoria From January 1
Many households in Victoria will have an unhappy start to 2011 when yet more electricity price hikes are introduced on January 1; adding up to an average $100 a year to bills. A report states households will be paying up to $600 more than they were three years ago.
Solar 2010 Canberra Conference Highlights
The annual Solar 2010 conference, hosted by the Australian Solar Energy Society, kicked off yesterday in Canberra. The conference was opened by the ACT Minister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water, Simon Corbell MLA.
USA Faces A Renewable Energy Sputnik Moment
“A Sputnik moment” refers back to the time when the former Soviet Union launched the first satellite, the Sputnik 1, and beat the USA into space after the country left it too late to mobilise. The USA’s Energy Secretary Steven Chu said yesterday the USA faces another Sputnik moment in relation to clean energy, including renewables.
Renewable Energy’s New World Order
China has further cemented its position as the top renewable energy-friendly nation; with Australia still ranked number 12.
Newsflash – Solar Credits Scheme Amendments Announced
The Minister for Climate Change and Energy Efficiency, Greg Combet, has just announced amendments to Australia’s Solar Credits Scheme.
Making Solar Power, Not War
Trillions of dollars have been spent on military infrastructure in preparation for or engaging in war. Some of that old infrastructure is beginning to be used for more peaceful and environmentally friendly purposes – the production of solar power.