Energy
SafeWork NSW has commenced a compliance blitz focusing on the safe installation of rooftop solar devices. Inspectors are ensuring rooftop solar business owners are checking safety of sub-contractors and that those working in the industry are incorporating safe work practices across the board. In 2022, SafeWork Inspectors visited 86 rooftop solar installation sites and observed a high level of non-compliance. During these inspections, 403 notices were issued, with fines totalling $216,864. Most notices issued were for falls from heights, followed by falling object and electrical risk. In 2022’s blitz, Inspectors noted: 54 per cent of the sites that had fall…
Study finds WA on track to meet wind energy growth aspirations
Western Australia appears set to meet offshore wind energy generation estimates outlined in a market study launched by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Arup. This follows the recent announcement by the Australian Federal Government opening public consultation for the Indian Ocean area for offshore wind off the coast of Bunbury. The Australian Offshore Wind Market Study, conducted by Arup, evaluates potential Australian offshore wind markets and analyses the strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities for UK support. Key findings indicate that the Australian offshore wind market could substantially benefit from collaboration with UK suppliers, given the UK's 23…
Queensland commits to gender equity in clean energy transition
The Queensland government has committed to a key initiative to deliver gender equality in the clean energy sector, as the first Australian state to sign up to the international Equal by 30 campaign. Equal by 30 aims for equal gender balance, equal pay, leadership and opportunity in the clean energy sector by 2030, and today Queensland joins more than 180 signatories from around the world in committing to it. Five proposed commitments have been developed to assist the Queensland Government in improving women’s participation in the energy sector. Adopting the campaign commits the government to: Develop a Women in Renewables…
Projects revealed for clean energy TRaCE scheme
In its first year, the Trailblazer for Recycling and Clean Energy (TRaCE) scheme has supported $117 million in R&D initiatives with industry partners. Hydrogen produced from saltwater and 'green ceramics' made from textile waste are just two of over a dozen inventions developed under the TRaCE scheme, which aims to speed research monetisation and provide skills for a circular, clean energy economy. Led by UNSW Sydney in partnership with the University of Newcastle (UoN), the two universities have been working closely with industry partners since being awarded $50 million in funding under the Australian government’s Trailblazer program in 2022. A…
WA government proposes clean energy centre
The WA government has lodged a proposal with the Commonwealth government to establish a Clean Energy National Centre of Excellence in Western Australia, as it works to position the state at the forefront of the global clean energy transition. The clean energy investment pipeline in Western Australia is in the vicinity of $200 billion, and projections show the clean energy sector is expected to generate around 350,000 jobs from 2025 to 2050. WA Premier Roger Cook said: “Our proposed TAFE Clean Energy National Centre of Excellence initiative is an excellent opportunity to use the entire network of WA TAFE colleges…
New fund for local QLD communities hosting key renewable energy project
A new state government fund will deliver local benefits to communities around the Borumba Pumped Hydro project in Queensland. An initial $5-million investment will restore crucial local family health services back to Imbil, after the private clinic shut a year ago. Additionally, funds will help deliver long awaited local mountain bike and walking trails, and progress proposed plans to build a second stage to the Mary Valley rail trail. QLD Minister for Energy Mick de Brenni said that with every energy project the government delivers, it would create new jobs and protect existing ones, and deliver legacy benefits to the…
Origin Energy acquires renewables developer Walcha Energy
Origin Energy has acquired renewable energy developer Walcha Energy, including its proposed Ruby Hills Wind Farm and Salisbury Solar Farm projects with a planned capacity of more than 1,300 megawatts. The acquisition complements the purchase of the nearby ‘Warrane’ property in July 2023, increasing Origin’s renewable project development interests within the NSW Government designated New England Renewable Energy Zone (REZ). Origin Head of Energy Supply and Operations Greg Jarvis said: “The acquisition of Walcha Energy is consistent with Origin’s ambition to lead the energy transition, and specifically our strategic priority to accelerate renewables and storage in our portfolio. “Through Walcha…