Connect with us

Published

on

Australia is at the forefront of the climate crisis and its potential solutions. Its coal industry is crucial to the economy, employing 46,000 people and generating over 50% of the country’s electricity. However, this reliance on coal has had significant impacts. 

However, since 1910, Australia’s average temperature has risen by more than 1.47 °C, leading to more frequent extreme weather events like wildfires, floods, and droughts. 

But can electrification change the temperature crisis in Australia? Is Electrification the future of industries? Let’s try to find out.  

On the bright side, Australia has the potential to lead the way to a net-zero economy, where the amount of greenhouse gases emitted is balanced by the amount removed from the atmosphere.  

The country has plenty of sunshine and open land, making it ideal for renewable energy projects. The government’s track record on climate policy is mixed, with some administrations favouring fossil fuels over clean energy.  

Despite this, 40% of Australia’s electricity came from renewable sources last year, and many significant wind and solar power projects are in progress.  

However, there have been instances where policies have favoured short-term economic gains over long-term sustainability, leading to a mixed track record. 

Australia’s Chance to Boost New Investment

Have you ever considered the energy needed to make things like beer, books, or plastic bottles? Manufacturers need a lot of heat to turn raw materials into products we use daily.  

Switching from traditional energy sources to electricity in the industry is a great chance to attract new investments, such as those in renewable energy projects and advanced manufacturing technologies, and revive Australian manufacturing for many years. 

The Electrifying Industry examines five types of electric heating technology and their applications: industrial heat pumps, electromagnetic heating, electric furnaces, renewable hydrogen, and heat storage. 

Best Energy-efficient Window and Door

The best energy-efficient windows include options like double-glazed and gas-filled windows, which improve energy efficiency. Factors like glass thickness and the distance between panels affect the quality.  

For doors, double glazing is more efficient than single glazing. The chamber between the panes, ideally filled with gas, and the coating on the panes enhance energy efficiency. The U Value, indicating heat transfer, should be low for better insulation and energy efficiency 

Choosing high-quality windows and doors with these features can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. 

The Impact of Electrification on the Future of Australian Industry

Here are some main ways that electrifying industry can shape Australia’s future: 

Lower Carbon Emissions:

Switching industries from fossil fuels to electricity can significantly reduce carbon emissions, helping Australia meet its climate goals and become more sustainable. 

Energy Efficiency:

Electrification often makes industrial processes more efficient. Electric motors and equipment usually use less energy than combustion, lowering energy use and operating costs. 

Using Renewable Energy:

Australia has plenty of renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Electrifying industry allows these renewable sources to be used, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and promoting a greener energy mix.

Innovation and Technology:

Electrification encourages technological innovation. Switching to electric machinery and processes can lead to the development and adoption advanced technologies, improving industrial competitiveness through automation and intelligent solutions.  

This innovation potential should excite the audience about the future of Australian industries. 

Job Creation:

Electrification has the potential to create new jobs in sectors like renewable energy, electric vehicle manufacturing, energy storage, and other emerging fields.  

This leads to a skilled workforce and promises economic growth, instilling hope and optimism for the future of Australian industries. 

Supply Chain Resilience:

Using diverse energy sources and reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels can make supply chains more resilient, minimising risks from global energy price fluctuations and geopolitical issues. 

Global Market Access:

As global markets increasingly prefer sustainable products, Australian industries that adopt electrification and clean practices can become more competitive internationally. 

Regulatory Compliance:

Electrification aligns with stricter global environmental regulations. Using cleaner energy sources helps industries comply with laws, avoid penalties, and show corporate responsibility. 

Infrastructure Development:

Electrification requires new infrastructure, like electric vehicle charging stations, renewable energy facilities, and smart grids. These investments can boost economic growth and foster innovation. 

Resilient and Sustainable Growth:

Electrification can lead to a more resilient and sustainable industrial landscape in Australia, allowing industries to thrive in a future focused on environmental care, technological progress, and changing consumer preferences. 

Cooperation among the government, industry, and research sectors is crucial to fully achieving the benefits of electrification.  

Policymakers and industry leaders must collaborate to create supportive policies, incentives, and investments in research and development, fostering a sense of collective responsibility and action. 

Electrification’s Approach to Energy Efficiency

Australian Industries

Why is Electrification More Energy-efficient?

Most fossil fuel-based heating processes could be more efficient and save a lot of heat. Electrical heating technologies are more efficient because they can: 

  • Deliver heat at the needed temperature, whereas fossil fuel systems often produce excess heat. 
  • Directly transfer heat to the material with minimal heat loss to the environment. 
  • Provide heat right where it’s needed, reducing heat loss during distribution. 
  • Sometimes, the need for heat is eliminated, such as when reverse osmosis removes water or ultraviolet light cures paints. 

What Are the Other Benefits of Electrifying Industrial Heat Processes?

  • Higher Temperature Capability: Electricity can power heat transfer at extremely high temperatures (up to 3,000°C), while gas-fired processes are limited to around 1,900°C. 
  • Speed: Electrical heat is faster. For example, induction and infrared technologies can complete tasks in seconds or minutes compared to hours for gas-fired systems. 
  • Availability: Electricity is accessible everywhere. Wind, solar power, and batteries can provide a cost-effective energy source in off-grid locations. 
  • Lower Labor Costs: Most electrical heating systems require less monitoring than combustion heating systems, reducing labour costs. 
  • Energy Security: Using electricity reduces dependence on the unpredictable prices of fossil fuels. 

Paving the Way for New Technology

The answer doesn’t have to be complicated. Signify, Australia’s most prominent lighting company, is a leader in energy-efficient lighting. 

Their analysis shows that about 50% of all lights in Australia use old technology (“tubes and bulbs”). Switching to connected LED lighting could have a significant financial and environmental impact. 

If all lights were switched to connected LEDs, it could save AUS$ 8.1 billion (US$5.3 billion) annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 7.9 million tonnes. This is like eliminating 76 million passenger flights from Melbourne to Sydney. 

Additionally, modern LED lighting frees up electricity for other uses. Signify estimates that connected LEDs were used everywhere in Australia and could power 3.8 million heat pumps, 4.4 million electric vehicles, or 5.2 million electric cooking units yearly. 

Australia has great potential in the fight against climate change. With abundant renewable resources, it should lead by example.  

Combining new energy-efficient technology with these resources could drive the economy towards a net-zero electric future. We need to act quickly and can gain a lot from this transition,  

Climate change has recently caused flooding and wildfires in Australia’s towns and cities. Part of the solution is to change how energy is used and wasted across the economy. 

Small, practical steps to save energy with new technologies will free up electricity for other uses and significantly reduce emissions contributing to extreme weather events. 

Electrical Energy Generation in Australia

Electrical Energy Generation in Australia

Australia’s electricity comes from various sources, which have changed over the years. Here are some key points: 

Renewable Energy: Australia is increasing its use of renewable energy, such as wind, solar, hydroelectric, and biomass. The country has lots of sunshine and wind, making it ideal for clean energy. 

Solar Energy: Australia has high solar radiation levels, which has led many homes and utilities to adopt solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. 

Wind Energy: Wind power is growing, with wind farms adding electricity to the grid in various areas. 

Hydroelectric Power: While not as common as in some other countries, hydroelectric power plants are part of Australia’s energy mix. 

Natural Gas: Natural gas is a significant part of Australia’s electricity generation. Gas-fired power plants are a flexible and relatively cleaner alternative to coal. 

Nuclear Energy: Australia currently has no commercial nuclear power plants, and nuclear energy is more debated than used in the energy mix. 

Energy Storage: Since solar and wind can be inconsistent, there is a growing focus on energy storage solutions like batteries. These help store extra energy for use when production is low. 

Electric Vehicles (EVs) and Charging Infrastructure: Renewable energy is also used in transportation, with a push for electric vehicles (EVs). Industries are investing in EV fleets and developing charging stations powered by renewable energy. 

Digital Transformation is Changing Australian Industries

Digital transformation is central to the energy sector’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions. Combining net-zero goals, advances in digital and industrial technologies, and changing consumer awareness creates new digital opportunities in the energy system. 

Australia’s energy suppliers are global leaders using digital technology to meet net-zero goals. The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates that digital transformation could add USD 1.3 trillion to the global electricity sector. 

Australian energy suppliers plan to use digital business transformation to drive their progress toward net-zero outcomes. 

Is Electrification The Future of Industries?

Electrification is poised to be the future of Australian industries, driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions, enhance energy efficiency, and integrate abundant renewable energy sources like solar and wind 

As industries transition from fossil fuels to electric-powered processes, they can leverage advancements in digital technologies to optimise energy use, reduce costs, and meet net-zero goals.  

This shift promises to create new job opportunities, stimulate economic growth, and position Australia as a global leader in sustainable industrial practices, aligning with environmental and financial objectives. 

For more informative content, keep an eye on Cyanergy 

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Is Electrification The Future Of Industries? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Is Electrification The Future Of Industries?

Continue Reading

Renewable Energy

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Published

on

ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance

Statement from American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) President and CEO Ray Long on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance:

“The American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) is deeply concerned that today’s Treasury guidance on the long-standing ‘beginning of construction’ safe harbor significantly undermines its proven effectiveness, is inconsistent with the law, and creates unnecessary uncertainty for renewable energy development in the United States.

“For over a decade, the safe harbor provisions have served as clear, accountable rules of the road – helping to reduce compliance burdens, foster private investment, and ensure taxpayer protections. These guardrails have been integral to delivering affordable, reliable American clean energy while maintaining transparency and adherence to the rule of law. This was recognized in the One Big Beautiful Act, which codified the safe harbor rules, now changed by this action. 

“We need to build more power generation now, and that includes renewable energy. The U.S. will need roughly 118 gigawatts (the equivalent of 12 New York Cities) of new power generation in the next four years to prevent price spikes and potential shortages. Only a limited set of technologies – solar, wind, batteries, and some natural gas – can be built at that scale in that timeframe.”

###

ABOUT ACORE

For over 20 years, the American Council on Renewable Energy (ACORE) has been the nation’s leading voice on the issues most essential to clean energy expansion. ACORE unites finance, policy, and technology to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy. For more information, please visit http://www.acore.org.

Media Contacts:
Stephanie Genco
Senior Vice President, Communications
American Council on Renewable Energy
genco@acore.org

The post ACORE Statement on Treasury’s Safe Harbor Guidance appeared first on ACORE.

https://acore.org/news/acore-statement-on-treasurys-safe-harbor-guidance/

Continue Reading

Renewable Energy

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Published

on

Frequent power outages, unreliable grid connection, sky-high electricity bills, and to top it off, your solar panels are exporting excess energy back to the grid, for a very low feed-in-tariff. 

Do all these scenarios sound familiar? Your answer might be yes! 

These challenges have become increasingly common across Australia, encouraging more and more homeowners to consider solar battery storage systems. 

Why? Because they want to take control of their energy, store surplus solar power, and reduce reliance on the grid.  

But then again, people often get perplexed, and their biggest question remains: Should I get a Solar Battery Storage System in Australia? 

Well, the answer can be yes in many cases, such as a battery can offer energy independence, ensure better bill savings, and provide peace of mind during unexpected power outages, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.  

There are circumstances where a battery may not be necessary or even cost-effective. 

In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense and all the pros and cons you need to know before making the investment.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now?

According to data, Australia has surpassed 3.9 million rooftop solar installations, generating more than 37 GW of PV capacity, which is about 20% of electricity in the National Electricity Market in 2024 and early 2025.  

Undoubtedly, the country’s strong renewable energy targets, sustainability goals, and the clean‑energy revolution have brought solar power affordability, but the next step in self‑reliance is battery storage. 

Data from The Guardian says that 1 in 5 new solar installs in 2025 now includes a home battery, versus 1 in 20 just a few years ago, representing a significant leap in adoption.  

Moreover, the recent launch of the Cheaper Home Batteries program has driven this uptake even further, with over 11,500 battery units installed in just the first three weeks from July 1, and around 1,000 installations per day. 

Overall, the Australian energy market is evolving rapidly. Average household battery size has climbed to about 17 kWh from 10–12 kWh previously.  

Hence, the experts are assuming that 10 GW of new battery capacity will be added over the next five years, competing with Australia’s current coal‑fired capacity.

What Am I Missing Out on Without Solar Batteries?

Honestly? You’re missing out on the best part of going solar. 

Renewable sources of energy like solar, hydro, and wind make us feel empowered. For example, solar batteries lower your electricity bills, minimize grid dependency, and also help to reduce your carbon footprint 

But here’s the catch! Without battery storage, you’re only halfway there! 

The true magic of solar power isn’t just in producing clean energy; it’s storing and using it efficiently.  

A solar battery lets you store excess energy and use it when the sun goes down or the grid goes out. It’s the key to real energy independence. Therefore, ultimately, getting a battery is what makes your solar system truly yours.

Why You Need Battery Storage Now

Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery: 

  1. Energy Independence 
  2. Batteries help you to stay powered even during blackouts or grid failures. With energy storage, you don’t have to think of fuel price volatility and supply-demand disruption in the  Australian energy market. 

  3. Maximized Savings  
  4. Adding a solar battery to your solar PV system allows you to use your own stored energy at night instead of repurchasing it at high rates. It also reduces grid pressure during peak hours, restoring grid stability. 

  5. Better Return on Investment ROI 
  6. Tired of Australian low feed-in-tariff rates 

    Make full use of your solar system by storing excess power at a low price rather than exporting it. Solar panel and battery systems can be a powerful duo for Australian households.  

  7. Lower Carbon Footprint 
  8. Despite the steady growth in solar, wind, and hydro, fossil fuels still dominate the grid. Fossil fuels supplied approximately 64% of Australia’s total electricity generation, while coal alone accounted for around 45%. 

    These stats highlight why solar battery storage is so valuable. By storing surplus solar energy, homeowners can reduce their reliance on a grid that still runs on coal and gas.  

  9. Peace of Mind 
  10. Enjoy 24/7 uninterrupted power, no matter what’s happening outside.  

    Besides powering urban homes and businesses, batteries also provide reliable power backup for off-grid living at night when your solar panel can’t produce, ensuring peace of mind. 

What Size Solar Battery Do I Need?

While choosing the battery size, it isn’t just about picking the biggest one you can afford; it’s about matching your household’s energy consumption pattern. There is no one-size battery that will make financial or functional sense for everyone. 

Nevertheless, if you have an average family of four with no exceptional power demands, you may get by with a 10kWh to 12kWh battery bank as a ready-to-roll backup system.  

Well, this is just an estimation, as we have no idea of your power needs, because selecting a battery is highly subjective to the household in question. 

With that being said, you can get a good idea of how much power you use on average by analyzing your electric bill copy. Also, keeping track of which appliances you use the most and which ones require the most power will help you.  

So, to figure out the ideal battery size for your home, you need to consider three most important things: 

  1. Your Daily Energy Usage

Check your electricity bill for your average daily consumption (in kWh). Most Australian homes use between 15 to 25 kWh per day. 

  1. Your Solar System Output

How much excess solar energy are you generating during the day? That’s the power you’ll store to use later rather than exporting. 

  1. Your Nighttime Power Usage

A battery is most useful at night or during grid outages. So, estimate how much power you typically use after sunset. However, by using a battery, you can also get the freedom of living off the grid. 

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help!  

Sizing Up: The Ideal Home Battery for Aussies! 

  • For small households and light usage, a 5 kWh battery will be suitable. 
  • For average Australian households, adding a 10 kWh battery would be enough. 
  • Large homes and high-energy users will need a 13 to 15 kWh system. 
  • For full independence, off-grid living, or blackout protection, you may require a larger battery size of 20+ kWh. 

Want help calculating your exact needs? Just drop your daily usage and solar output, and we’ll do the math for you! Cyanergy is here to help! 

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost

Previously, you would have to pay between $3000 and $3600 for the battery alone, plus the cost of installation, for every kWh of solar battery storage.  

However, you can currently expect to pay between $1200 and $1400 for each kWh of solar battery storage. That is a price reduction of approximately 52%, and things will only get better from here. 

Does that imply solar batteries are cheap now? Not really, but the cost is well justified by the pros of having a battery storage system. 

Also, while paying for solar batteries, you have to consider many other factors like the type of battery, your solar panel system configurations and compatibility, brand, and installation partner.  

These will significantly influence the price range of battery storage. 

Is a Solar Battery Worth It | Pros and Cons at a Glance

It’s okay to feel a little overwhelmed while deciding to invest your hard-earned money in a battery.  

So, here we’ve listed the pros and cons of having a solar battery to help you in the decision-making process. 

Benefits of Solar Battery Storage 

  • Solar batteries help you become self-sustaining. 
  • You don’t have to care about power outages anymore 
  • In the event of any natural disaster, you will still have a power source 
  • Battery prices are dropping significantly as we speak 
  • During peak hours, grid electricity prices increase due to high demand; you can avoid paying a high price and use your battery. It’s essentially free energy, as solar generates energy from the sun. 
  • Reduced carbon footprint as the battery stores energy from a renewable source. 

Advantages of battery for the grid and national energy system: 

  • Batteries support Virtual Power Plants (VPPs). In 2025, consumers get financial bonuses (AUD 250‑400) for joining, plus grid benefits via distributed dispatchable power.  
  • Grid‑scale batteries like Victoria Big Battery or Hornsdale Power Reserve are increasing system resilience by storing large amounts of renewable energy and reducing blackout risk. 

Drawbacks of Solar Battery Storage 

  • One of the biggest barriers is that solar batteries have a high upfront cost, which makes installation harder for residents. 
  • Home batteries require physical space, proper ventilation, and can’t always be placed just anywhere, especially in smaller homes or apartments. 
  • Most batteries, like lithium-ion batteries, last 5 to 15 years, meaning they may need replacement during your solar system’s lifetime. 
  • While many systems are low-maintenance, some may require software updates, monitoring, or even professional servicing over time. 
  • Battery production involves mining and processing materials like lithium or lead, which raise environmental and ethical concerns.   

Should You Buy a Solar Battery?: Here’s the Final Call!

You should consider buying a solar battery if several key factors align with your situation.  

First, it’s a strong financial move if you live in a state where federal and state incentives can significantly reduce the upfront cost. This can make the investment far more affordable.  

A solar battery can be especially worthwhile if you value having backup power during outages, lowering your electricity bills, and gaining a measure of energy independence from the grid.  

Additionally, you should be comfortable with taking a few extra steps to get the most value out of your system, such as joining a virtual power plant (VPP), which allows your battery to participate in grid services in exchange for modest returns.  

Finally, it’s worth noting that rebates decline annually, and early adopters get the most value.  

Takeaway Thoughts

Installing a solar battery in Australia in mid‑2025 offers substantial financial, environmental, and energy‑security benefits, especially if you qualify for multiple subsidies and have good solar capacity.  

With rebates shrinking after 2025 and demand surging, early movers stand to benefit most. 

By helping balance the grid and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, home battery adoption contributes significantly to Australia’s national goals of 82% renewable energy by 2030 

It’s not just about savings; it’s about being part of a smarter, cleaner, more resilient electricity future for Australia. 

Looking for CEC-accredited local installers?  

Contact us today for any of your solar needs. We’d be happy to assist!  

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System? appeared first on Cyanergy.

Should I Get a Solar Battery Storage System?

Continue Reading

Renewable Energy

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Published

on

I just spoke with a guy in the wine industry, and I asked him how, if at all, climate change is affecting what we does.

From his perspective, it’s the horrific wildfires whose smoke imbues (or “taints”) the grapes with an unpleasant flavor that needs to be modified, normally by creative methods of blending.

Wine Grapes and Climate Change

Continue Reading

Trending

Copyright © 2022 BreakingClimateChange.com