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Big utilities charge into distributed energy, one step at a time
Australia’s biggest two utilities have decided they want to own the rooftop solar on homes and business, and maybe the storage and EVs too. RE interviews the executives behind the strategies, and their attempts to switch from a centralised model to a distributed future. -
Network operator sees no future for generators, retailers
Operator of one of Australia’s biggest networks says solar, battery storage and micro grids means the business models of centralised generators and retailers will be made redundant. In other words, no long term future for Origin, AGL or EnergyAustralia. The future is local, and that is bad news for coal, gas and nuclear. -
Origin of the energy species: Will our utilities ever evolve?
Grant King’s new attack on renewables – and the carbon price – was expected by most in the industry. It underlines the fear that Australia’s utilities are not ready to evolve, unless there is strong political leadership. Sadly, there is not much chance of that. -
Origin still unhappy about renewables ruling and target
Origin Energy is still unhappy about the CCA ruling on the renewable energy target, and the issue of cost. In the meantime, its earnings suffer from falling demand – the result of intense competition and the impact of solar PV – while its full-year profits will be hit further by the impact of hot weather in January, when everyone switched on the air-con.
