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Inside a network operator: How solar changed the game
The solar revolution is sweeping the world, and Queensland utility Energex has witnessed some of the most dramatic impacts, with load curves turned upside down and meters running backwards. But the dilemma remains, how to arrest the “death spiral” as more customers put solar on their rooftops. Storage will be the key. -
Should state governments write down value of networks?
If state governments were serious about cutting energy costs to consumers, they would write down the value of their electricity networks. That’s what the media, telco and other industries did when their business models were undermined by new technologies. Instead, they are targeting solar households, and erecting barriers for further cost savings. -
King Island’s wind turbine syndrome: Fact or fiction?
King Island residents are being presented with an invidious choice – host a multi-billion dollar, 200 turbine wind farm, or prepare for an influx of up to 45,000 swingers in plus-fours. They could enjoy the benefits of both, but they should really ensure that they get the facts right first. -
Is the coal industry gaining a sense of its own mortality?
It’s been a bad week for the thermal coal industry. The commodity’s biggest consumer, China, appears serious about curbing its demand, coal mines are losing money, coal generators are closing down, and the head of Australia’s industry has had a scripted meltdown, blaming “environmental extremists”. Why not blame the market? -
CEFC receives proposals for more than $10bn in projects
The CEFC says it has been inundated with proposals – with more than $4 billion of projects under active discussion and a total of $10 billion on its table. However, CEO Oliver Yates says the Coalition has misunderstood its role, and it is not a lender of last resort. He says threats to repeal contracts will have an impact on sovereign risk.
