Australia’s renewable energy capacity has experienced significant growth, with solar and wind installations proliferating across the country.
However, progress is hindered by a critical challenge: effectively integrating renewables into the grid.
The intermittent nature of solar and wind power necessitates robust storage solutions and grid enhancements. To take three steps forward, we must align government policies with renewable energy targets.
Incentivizing investment in battery storage, smart grids, and interconnection infrastructure is crucial. Yet, despite capacity expansion, the share of renewables in the electricity mix remains insufficient. Coal-fired power plants still dominate, emitting greenhouse gases and impeding the transition.
This milestone is recognized globally, with the airport obtaining ACA Level 5 for its decarbonization efforts. πΏπ
VINCI Concessions, part of French group Vinci SA, inaugurated a rooftop solar power system at Toulon Hyères airport. This system generates 690 MWh per year and supplies green electricity to the airport.
To address residual emissions, the airport funds reforestation efforts in Le Lavandou forest, collaborating with local authorities and communities.
The airport’s environmental plan, initiated by VINCI Airports, reduced direct CO2 emissions by 92.5% between 2018 and 2022. Measures included energy efficiency policies, LED lighting, and renewable energy contracts.
Some EU countries have already met their 2030 targets for renewable energy and emissions. This is great for the planet and for the future of clean energy. π
But there is still more work to be done. The EU aims to reduce emissions by 55 % by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. All member states need to invest more in renewable energy, efficiency, and innovation.
In an inspiring move, the town of Cluny in France has transformed its cemetery into a solar energy hub. By installing photovoltaic panels on the graves, they’re harnessing the power of the sun to generate clean electricity. πΏ
This innovative project not only honors the departed but also contributes to a sustainable future. Imagine a serene resting place where loved ones rest under the same sun that powers our homes and businesses. ππ‘
Let’s celebrate Cluny’s forward-thinking approach and encourage more communities to embrace renewable energy solutions. Together, we can create a brighter, greener world! ππ±
Finnish researchers have unveiled the world’s first fully operational “sand battery”. This ingenious invention can store green power for months at a time, addressing the perennial challenge year-round energy supply βa critical issue for sustainable energy systems.
Here’s how it works: Using low-grade sand, the battery is charged with heat generated from affordable electricity sourced from solar panels or wind turbines. The sand stores this heat at a toasty 500Β°C.
When winter arrives and energy costs soar, the stored warmth can be harnessed to heat homes and buildings. π π₯
Traditional lithium-based batteries are costly, bulky, and have limited capacity. But in the town of KankaanpÀÀ, a team of visionary Finnish engineers has achieved a commercial breakthrough.
Their sand battery offers a low-cost, low-impact solution for energy storage. When surplus green electricity surges, this technology swiftly channels it into storage, ensuring a steady supply when needed most. πΏβ‘
The Yanco Delta wind farm, a 1500MW project by Virya Energy, has been granted federal approval to proceed in the South West Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) of New South Wales.
The project will feature 208 wind turbines with a maximum tip height of 270 meters , an 800MW/800MWh battery and grid connection infrastructure.
It will power 700,000 NSW homes and avoid 3.5 million tones of CO2 emissions per year. π±
The project will also create hundreds of jobs and economic opportunities for the local communities in the Murrumbidgee and Edward River Local Government Areas, where the project will be spread over eight different land holdings.
The project is expected to start construction in 2025 and reach full operation by 2028. β³