Here’s Why Solar Energy Industry Has A Bright Future In Australia
Yes, the sun is a truly infinitely plentiful energy source. And Australia is set to continue leading the world in using solar for electricity generation. The nation has set an ambitious target of increasing the solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity up to 80.22 GW by 2030.
An abundance of sunshine, initiatives to promote research and development, and awareness about environmental issues are factors working in the country’s favor. The future of solar power is bright indeed.
At Charlie Sparks, we keep track of key developments that can impact solar adoption and the overall industry. Here’s a quick look at five developments highlighting the upcoming rapid growth.
Yes, the sun is a truly infinitely plentiful energy source. And Australia is set to continue leading the world in using solar for electricity generation. The nation has set an ambitious target of increasing the solar photovoltaic (PV) capacity up to 80.22 GW by 2030.
An abundance of sunshine, initiatives to promote research and development, and awareness about environmental issues are factors working in the country’s favor. The future of solar power is bright indeed.
At Charlie Sparks, we keep track of key developments that can impact solar adoption and the overall industry. Here’s a quick look at five developments highlighting the upcoming rapid growth.
Australia Aims To Drive Innovation In Ultra-Low Cost Solar
In June this year, Chris Bowen, Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, declared the government’s commitment to further development in solar technologies.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (under the federal government) extended $45 million to help Australian Center for Advanced Photovoltaics (ACAP) continue its solar photovoltaic (PV) research until 2030.
The University of NSW-based organization works towards developing durable and efficient solar cells with cheaper and abundant metals. Under the initiative, the organization also trains engineers and research scientists to work toward developing cutting-edge solar photovoltaics (PV).
Overall, the federal government is committed to supporting the development of alternative solar panel materials.
Extraordinary Rise In Panel Installations Despite The Pandemic
Numbers reported by the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) highlighted that the massive uptake of solar panels did not slow down despite the pandemic in 2021. Overall, Australian householders installed 3,000MW of rooftop solar last year despite supply chain disruptions and lockdowns.
Australia happens to be the only nation with solar panels on one-third of the country’s houses. The same report indicates around 360,000 customers installed rooftop panels in 2021.
The average size moved slightly upward from 8kW to 8.3kW. However, even bigger systems in the 10–15kW bracket witnessed an increase in demand.
Do you wish to install the best solar power system for your house? Let specialists from Charlie Sparks help you choose panels, an inverter, and the best battery system for you.
Cost On Exporting Electricity To Reduce Congestion On The Grid
During the coming months, more homeowners might prefer battery-connected panels. But why?
Well, last year, the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) presented a controversial proposal. Later, a slightly modified draft was introduced in August with free and paid options for customers.
Long story short, exporting electricity to the grid during non-peak times can result in charges from July 2025. However, the Clean Energy Regulator (CER) believes these tweaks in regulation were vital to reducing congestion on the grid.
Despite changes, homeowners will continue earning money if they export electricity during the required timeframe. According to the AEMC’s findings, an average house with 4 and 6 kilowatts will still save $900 on its bills annually.
It is crucial to note that some electricity retailers already charge small fees to consumers exporting electricity during non-peak times in some areas.
Drastic Increase In The Demand For Home Solar Batteries
Rebates and incentives on household solar batteries have helped increase awareness about off-grid systems. Solar rebate schemes can help homeowners save up to $3,500. As a result, households are opting to use solar systems with batteries to store additional power generated by panels.
As per a report published by the Guardian, Aussies have been very enthusiastic about battery rebates during the first half of 2022. Retailers, who are a part of the accreditation scheme, also witnessed a rise in sales inquiries, according to the Clean Energy Council.
And why not? After all, exporting additional power to the grid during non-peak time does not result in much credit. So, storing the extra energy for later use is the best alternative.
Australia To Continue Leading The World In Shifting Towards Wind And Solar Energy
The Global Electricity Review 2022 from the European climate and energy think tank Ember offers some interesting findings. And, of course, Aussies have something to feel proud of in the report.
- Worldwide solar power generation witnessed a whopping 23 percent increase in 2021.
- Solar energy catered to roughly 3.7 percent of the world’s electricity needs last year.
- Out of the overall consumption, Australia sourced 12 percent of electricity from solar systems.
- Only 50 countries could generate more than 10 percent of electricity demand from solar.
- Netherlands and Australia managed to keep up their pace when it comes to increasing power generation from wind and solar.
Issues like coal mining have triggered debates and helped spread the word about the crucial role played by renewable energy sources. Currently, more than 30 percent of houses in Australia have rooftop solar systems. The number will undoubtedly keep on increasing during the next few years.
If you plan to reduce your dependency on the grid and save on electricity bills, this is the best time to install a rooftop solar system. Feel free to call Charlie Sparks if you have any queries about solar panel installation in Sydney. You can book an appointment, and our installation specialist will visit your house to recommend the best system.
