Published

5 months ago

May 23, 2025

Alice Rush

In a world increasingly driven by car horns, concrete jungles, never-ending industrialization, and a dependency on public utilities, have you ever wondered what it would feel like to unplug truly?

Whether it’s your desire to reduce environmental impact, escape rising energy prices, or simply long for a slower, more meaningful life, off-grid living is on the rise across Australia.

Over the years, more individuals and families have been breaking away from urban routines and choosing a life of independence and sustainability while growing a deep connection with the land.

But how to live off the grid? What does it really take to make it successful, sustaining the lifestyle?

Well, this guide will cover everything you need to know about finding the perfect location, powering your home, growing your own food, and navigating the challenges that come with this transformative way of life for Australians.

So, keep reading along to know more!

In this blog post:

What Is Off-Grid Living? | A Modern Path to Independence!

Off-grid living simply means maintaining a lifestyle without relying on electricity grids. It’s more about creating a self-sufficient, independent way of life where you generate your own power, manage your food, water, and deal with the waste.

Rather than drawing power from the national grid, this standalone system produces energy using natural renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydro power.

However, living off the grid wasn’t as convenient as it is today. Now, with modern technology, you can live off the grid with most of the comforts of a conventional home.

Imagine having everything just like average households: hot showers, internet, refrigeration, and even Netflix in the wild. Yes, it’s all possible if you design your system right.

So, living off-grid means you have to:

Generate your own power using solar panels, wind turbines, or hydro systems

Harvesting and purifying your own water from rain or other surface sources

Manage waste responsibly, usually through composting toilets and greywater recycling.

Reduce reliance on commercial systems, such as supermarkets and petrol stations.

Developing self-reliant skills like gardening, DIY maintenance, food preservation, or farming.

How Does an Off-Grid Solar System Work?

To make an off-grid system workable, you will need key components such as solar panels, solar inverters, inverter chargers, battery storage, and backup generators.

So, how do all these elements combine to form the ideal off-the-grid home? Let’s find out!

First, when sunlight strikes the solar panels, a photovoltaic reaction occurs, producing energy. The quality of the panels will determine how much power is produced within a specific duration.

Then, the solar inverter transforms the produced DC electricity into AC power, making it ready for household use. In the best cases, the trusty solar inverters handle this conversion with 99% efficiency.

After use, the extra energy is stored in the solar batteries. However, there is a catch! The battery bank can only be used to store DC.

Therefore, the inverter is used to do the reverse conversion and communicate when to stop the conversion and run it the other way. Also, remember that on rare occasions when your batteries run dry, you may need backup from diesel generators.

Things to Check Before You Go Off the Grid in Australia

You can choose two ways when deciding to go off the grid.

First, you can convert your current residence into an off-grid system. Technically, off-grid living means cutting off your reliance on the mass-used power grid.

As energy prices are at their peak nowadays, and they only seem to be getting worse, you can cut off your reliance on the public shared grid and generate your own power through sustainable and renewable sources like solar, wind, water, etc.

Before you do that, you must check with the authorities, as different councils may have different regulations.

Also, when you decide to go for certain renewable energy sources like solar, you may be eligible for government rebates for an off-grid solar system. Make sure you explore all the benefits of off-grid solar living, like the rebates, or consult a solar expert.

The second way to live off the grid is to relocate. That comes with a completely different set of challenges, as not only power, but you may also need to build every repetitive cycle management, like power generation, from scratch.

There are many remote locations in Australia where you do not need a permit to live or build; you can relocate to those areas to create your own sustainable lifestyle.

In short, there are three aspects in which you need to look out regarding legal obligations, which are:

Zoning and housing permits

Land allocation and ownership

The government provided rebates and incentives

Keep in mind that relocating somewhere remote does give you complete freedom, and being one with nature may seem tempting, but if you are heavily reliant on city life and the convenience of a town, this might just not be your call.

Do People Live Off the Grid in Australia?

Yes, many people in Australia choose to live off the grid, seeking a self-sufficient lifestyle, shifting away from the constraints of modern society.

This alternative way of living off-grid has gained popularity due to residents’ desire for greater energy independence, environmental consciousness, and a slower pace of life.

Moreover, the burden of soaring utility bills, which hit hardest during the scorching summers and bitter winters, is pushing more people to break free from grid power and embrace a reliable lifestyle where they control their own energy and future.

However, Australia offers a unique mix of advantages for off-grid enthusiasts, for example:

With over 2,500 hours of sunshine per year in many parts of the country, solar power is a real blessing for Australians.

While policy varies by state, some regions offer rebates or relaxed zoning for sustainable housing.

The country has vast land availability, especially in rural and regional areas.

There are several energy efficiency schemes, renewable energy targets, government laws, and regulations in some states.

Australia has a strong, growing community of united individuals eager to share knowledge and help whenever needed.

So, whether you’re in Tasmania’s temperate forests or the Victorian highlands, there’s a growing opportunity to embrace off-grid living in Australia.

The country offers a promising landscape for building a self-reliant future!

How to Live Off the Grid in 2025: Cyanergy’s Complete Guide to Energy Freedom

Living off-grid is nearly impossible without some basic essentials. From finding the right location to proper waste management or food production, every action you take requires proper planning and significant initial investment.

So here we’ve jotted down a few key steps for living off-grid:

Choosing the Right Location
Powering Your Off-Grid Life
Securing Water Supply
Ensure Passive Heating and Cooling
Shelter: Building Your Off-Grid Home
Food Production and Self-Sufficiency
Proper Waste Disposal
Staying Connected: Internet and Communication

Choosing the Right Location: Where the Wild Meets the Practical

Selecting where to start your off-the-grid life is one of the most exciting and important decisions you’ll make.

Though it’s tempting to pick a quiet, green bushland with an amazing view, going off-grid is more than scenery. It dictates what you need, how self-sufficient you can be, and how difficult your life will become.

So, before moving to a far place, evaluate the land and get an idea of the climate, weather, soil conditions, and other local conditions.

What Makes a Great Off-Grid Property?

Sun Exposure

As most off-grid systems in Australia rely on solar energy, you’ll need consistent sunlight and minimal shade to run your household appliances 24/7 uninterruptedly.

Water Access

Water supply is a very critical factor for this alternative lifestyle. So, before shifting, make sure the property receives enough rainfall for the tanks.

Soil Quality

Planning to grow your own food? Test the soil. Sandy, salty, or contaminated soil can ruin your plans before you plant your first seedling.

Also, sustainable agriculture or the agrovoltaics method can help in off-grid living, increasing food production.

Council Zoning and Permits

Check with the local council; some rural properties are zoned as agricultural or conservation land, so this might limit what you can build or how you can live.

Accessibility

Think about logistics. Is there year-round access by car?

Can emergency services or supply trucks reach you in bad weather? If not, the place is unsafe to start your off-grid life.

Powering Your Off-Grid Life: The Heartbeat of Self-Sufficiency

One of the most critical barriers to going off the grid is finding a reliable power-generating source to keep the home functional.

Electricity might be the utility you notice most when you disconnect from the grid. But the abundant sunlight and improved battery storage technology have made power generation much more efficient and affordable.

Solar Power: The Gold Standard

For most Australian off-gridders, solar is the primary energy source, and for good reason.

With a well-sized system, you can run lights, fridges, power tools, computers, washing machines, and air conditioners if you manage loads wisely.

Supplementary Systems: Wind and Hydro

Wind turbines can complement solar in coastal or elevated areas with steady winds.

Micro-hydro systems can be a top-notch option if you live near a year-round flowing water source, but they require specific territory and permits.

Backup Generators: Not Cheating, Just Smart

Ever wondered what to do during extended bad weather or increased usage, like during winter holidays?

Even the best systems can fail, so a backup petrol or diesel generator must be included to recharge batteries or power essential appliances when needed.

Securing Water Supply: Every Drop Counts!

When you live off the grid in a dry country like Australia, you’re responsible for sourcing, storing, and purifying every drop you use for drinking, cooking, washing, and gardening.

Rainwater Harvesting: The Most Common Method

The vast majority of off-grid Australians rely on rainwater tank systems. Here’s how it works:

At first, gutters collect rainwater from your roof.

First flush diverters remove debris and contaminants.

Large storage tanks of 20,000 –100,000 liters hold the water for daily use.

Then, the filtration systems ensure that your water is safe to drink.

In extreme dry regions, you may also need a backup water source, such as drilling a borehole or building a dam.

Ensure Passive Heating and Cooling

Design your home to regulate temperature naturally. How?

Strategic window placement, insulation, thermal mass, and ventilation can help keep your space comfortable year-round without relying heavily on external power.

Shelter: Building Your Off-Grid Home

Construct a home that suits your environment and lifestyle. Whether it’s a tiny house, cabin, or earthship, keep it energy-efficient and made from sustainable materials if possible.

Here are some common Off-Grid Housing Types:

Tiny Houses on Wheels: Quick to set up, legally flexible, and great for minimalists.
Earthships or Cob Homes: Thermally efficient, built from natural, recycled materials.
Shipping Container Homes: Modular, modern, and sturdy.
Cabins or Kit Homes: Often pre-approved for council approval, easier to finance.

Food Production and Self-Sufficiency: From Garden to Plate!

Grow your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs, and consider raising chickens or bees. A productive garden reduces reliance on outside food sources and brings you closer to a self-sustaining life.

Begin with raised beds and simple crops like Tomatoes, Beetroot, Zucchini, Potatoes, Herbs, etc.

Additionally, investing in livestock, even if it’s a small flock of chickens, can dramatically boost your food security. Include ducks for pest control, or goats for milk and bush clearing.

Proper Waste Disposal: Are You Doing It Right?

Composting toilets, greywater systems, and proper recycling setups are essential for off-grid lifestyles.

Hence, use a septic tank system, the most common solution for handling sewage. It safely separates solid waste from liquid, which is then filtered into a leaching field. While installation can be DIY in some cases, it typically requires professional help.

Also, a greywater system can be a valuable complement to this. It recycles water from sinks, showers, and laundry for non-potable uses like irrigation or toilet flushing, reducing the strain on your well and overall water consumption.

Remember, managing waste responsibly helps maintain a clean environment and supports sustainability.

Staying Connected: Internet and Communication

While living off-grid often means disconnecting from city life, staying in touch is still important.

Satellite internet, mobile hotspots, or radio systems can help you stay connected for emergencies, work, or keeping in touch with loved ones.

Parting Thoughts

For some, living off-grid is about environmental sustainability; for others, it’s about financial freedom or mental peace.

The beauty is that off-grid living can be tailored to suit your values, needs, and personal vision of freedom.

So, for more informative content like this, contact Cyanergy today and win a free solar quote!

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How to Live Off the Grid | Off Grid Living 101 appeared first on Cyanergy.

How to Live Off the Grid | Off Grid Living 101

Renewable Energy

States Calculate Onshore Wind Opportunities

Published

18 hours ago

October 6, 2025

Alice Rush

Weather Guard Lightning Tech

States Calculate Onshore Wind Opportunities

In September, when some farmers and homeowners in St. Joseph County in north-central Indiana received letters from German-based UKA Group about the company’s interest in developing a new wind farm, it wasn’t necessarily welcome news. A handful of the letter recipients took to social media to state their opposition. But for the western edge of neighboring state Ohio, wind has provided a significant economic boost for small communities.

Sparsely-populated Paulding County Ohio is home to fewer than 19,000 residents, three utility-scale wind farms, and one-and-a-half solar farms.

Each year from 2015-2020, the county saw roughly $2.5 million in “pilot payments,” pre-tax investments the county negotiated to be paid prior to the project’s completion. (More money was to be paid out once all of the turbines came online.) In 2020, Jerry Zielke, then Paulding County’s economic development director, told Ohio reporter Rod Hissong the new wind farm has been “a really really great opportunity for us and our community financially and it really has helped our economy here in Paulding County.”

Local media chronicled the process, explaining how the money generated was spent, invested, and shared in a variety of ways – including $120,000 in annual scholarships for local students.

Wayne Trace schools were an obvious beneficiary. According to the Spectrum article, “Wayne Trace Superintendent Ben Winans said since the school started receiving wind farm money in 2013 they’ve hired 18 new teachers. ” Winans also noted that the GAP closing – getting lower-performing students to achieve at higher levels – “improved from an ‘f’ to an ‘A,’ ” he told SpectrumOne.

Since then, Paulding County’s new economic development director, Tim Copsey, has increased the county’s income by negotiating to bring two solar farms to the area. Timber Road Solar Farm has been supplying local farmers with a “drought resistant form of income” since it came online in 2023.

Ohio county map with Paulding County highlighted in blue

Image credit: EDP and Timber Road Solar Farm (Ohio map) and Google Maps (Indiana map inset, below)

Will Indiana WElcome a New Wind Farm?

States Calculate Onshore Wind Opportunities

It may be an uphill battle for the UKA wind farm.

St. Joseph County recently enacted an ordinance to deter solar power generation in the county. But, the state already generates 3,368 MW – more than three times what Ohio’s wind farms generate – and another 302 MW are under construction, according to the US DOE and American Clean Power.

And it’s not a new development – according to the Indiana Office of Energy Development, wind energy has been part of the state’s fuel mix since 2006.

In Illinois, Indiana’s neighbor to the west, 7665 MW, or about 12% of the state’s energy, is derived from wind.

Will Indiana continue to do as other states do – including its neighbors, and other farming states like Iowa, and even oil-rich Texas – and sell wind power to fuel income for their state and county budgets? Time will tell, and we’ll be watching as things develop.

You also might be interested in: New Jersey’s Electricity Rate Crisis is a Perfect Storm for Wind Energy

For regular updates on wind and other renewable development projects, technologies, and news, subscribe to the Uptime Tech News newsletter and tune in to the Uptime Wind Energy Podcast.

https://weatherguardwind.com/states-calculate-onshore-wind-opportunities/

Renewable Energy

Off-Grid Solar Power Simplified – Off-Grid 101

Published

1 day ago

October 6, 2025

Alice Rush

A few years ago, many Australians wanted to switch to solar energy, but the cost sometimes didn’t match their expectations.

But today, the landscape has changed dramatically. 2025 is poised to be a pivotal moment for the adoption of renewable energy in Australia. Wondering why?

With a range of generous government rebates and support programs available, particularly in Victoria (VIC) and New South Wales (NSW), going solar has never been more accessible or affordable.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or involved in community housing, these federal and state solar rebates can significantly reduce installation costs, making the transition to solar energy more achievable than ever.

Therefore, in this article, we’ll focus specifically on the types of government rebates available for Solar Panels in VIC & NSW.

We’ll also highlight how these expanded federal incentives, upgraded state schemes, and new battery rebates are helping Australians lower their electricity bills while boosting energy independence.

So, let’s get started!

In this blog post:

Federally Available Rebates for Both VIC & NSW

From the abundant sunshine of Australia, we get around 58 million petajoules of clean, reliable solar energy each year, which is nearly 10,000 times more than we actually need.

So it’s no surprise we’re making the shift to solar in a big way.

To help in this energy transition, the government offers solar rebates through Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) under the Renewable Energy Target (RET).

Isn’t it a smart move toward a cleaner, greener future? Surely it is!

So let’s explore the available rebates and incentives further in the following section:

Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) | Solar Rebates via STCs

In this federal SRES, your installer applies for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) when installing solar systems up to 100 kW, delivering an immediate discount on upfront costs.

However, please note that the value depends on your system’s size and geographical location. For example:

In Victoria, a 6 kW system might yield around $1,748 based on 46 STCs, each at $38.
In New South Wales, the same system could attract approximately $2,052. These figures typically reduce installation costs by 30% to 40%.

So, what are STCs?

STCs are energy certificates generated by authorized solar retailers. For each megawatt of energy saved by the solar, one STC is generated.

These energy certificates serve as a financial inducement for home and small-business owners to adopt different energy-saving techniques, including solar water heaters and solar panel systems.

Is the homeowner responsible for generating these certificates? Do you get a cheque in the mail in exchange for them? No, that’s not how it works.

The CEC (Clean Energy Council) approved solar retailer with whom you make the deal is responsible for generating these certificates and handing them over to the energy retailers.

The Small-scale Technology Percentage (STP) determines how many STCs the energy provider must submit. The price against each STC is determined by the demand and supply curves of the financial quarter.

What’s in it for you?

Here’s the good part: these Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) aren’t just a win for the planet; they’re a win for your wallet, too.

Solar retailers trade these certificates for financial gain, which means they’re motivated to offer you upfront discounts on your system. In the end, you save thousands on installation costs just for choosing to go green.

It’s a simple way to cut your power bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and make the most of Australia’s sunshine all in one move.

STC FAQs For Beginners: Know Before You Apply!

Am I eligible for this rebate?

If you are running a small business or a household with a capacity of 100kW or less, you are eligible.

What’s the price of STC?

The price of STCs depends on the market demand and supply for the quarter. It can range anywhere from $0 to $40 at max.

How can I get it?

Reach out to a CEC-approved solar retailer and use CEC-approved products for the installation, and you will get it. Of course, there are other benchmarks to meet to provide a definitive answer.

Will STC end soon?

Until the year 2030, all solar retailers will generate certificates, and after that, this scheme will come to an end.

Cheaper Home Batteries Program: Federal Battery Rebate

Launched on July 1, 2025, this federal initiative offers approximately 30% off eligible home battery installations, delivered through the SRES framework. However, to become eligible for this battery incentive, you must meet a few criteria.

Here’s the eligibility checklist:

Your solar battery has a nominal capacity ranging from 5 kWh to 100 kWh.
The system must be approved by the Clean Energy Council.
STCs (Small-scale Technology Certificates) are calculated based on the battery’s usable capacity, but can only be claimed for the first 50 kWh of usable capacity.
The battery must be installed with a new or existing solar PV system.
Installation done by accredited installers.
Open to all eligible properties, with a limit of one rebate per property.

Lastly, installation is considered complete once a Certificate of Electrical Compliance is signed, confirming your system meets all relevant state and territory electrical safety rules.

Does This Impact Power Bills?

According to government analysis, households combining solar with battery installations could save up to $2,300 annually, nearly 90% of a typical electricity bill.

In practical terms, the rebate can be up to $372 per usable kWh for systems with a capacity of up to 50 kWh. This ultimately saves thousands of dollars in total for your Aussie homes.

Moreover, in large commercial systems with capacities of 13.5 kWh or more, these typical savings can range from $3,300 to $4,000. The best part is that you can stack this program with state rebates, thereby increasing the total savings.

VIC Solar Panel Rebates, Grants & Incentives in 2025

In addition to the federal rebate, Victorians can enjoy a state rebate that reduces the initial investment cost. Here are the different types of financial incentive schemes available to Victorians at the state level.

Solar Homes Program: Solar Panel Rebates & Interest-free Loans

Under this solar home program, households can enjoy an upfront rebate of up to $1,400 for rooftop solar PV systems. This rebate covers up to 50% of the cost of the solar installation.
This financial aid is available to people of various categories, from owner-occupiers, renters, homes under construction, to community housing organizations.

Interest-free Loan in VIC

In addition to the $1,400 off the system, Victorians can enjoy an interest-free loan option facilitated by the state government.

An equal amount of loan will be provided to those who meet all the criteria determined by the state government. You may apply for this matching interest-free loan up to $1,400, repayable over four years with no interest or additional fees.

Here we’ve listed the eligibility criteria for this loan:

A combined household taxable income of less than $210,000 per year.
Owner or current occupier of the property of the installation.
Property valuation of less than 3 million dollars.
No existing solar PV system.
Have not taken advantage of the solar homes program in the last 10 years.

In addition to these solar rebates, other energy efficiency schemes can help you upgrade your home with smart and energy-efficient appliances.

For instance, they offer hot water rebates of up to $1,000 for eligible heat pump or solar hot water products. If you opt for an Australian‑made product, eligibility may increase to $1,400.

These energy-efficient homes reduce energy cost, lower carbon emissions, and power your home sustainably.

New South Wales (NSW) Solar Incentives

In NSW, residents also benefit from the SRES or STC scheme, which offers a discount of around 30%. The rebate amount is typically around $2,500 for a 6.6 kW system.

Peak Demand Reduction Scheme (PDRS) | Battery Rebates

PDRS offers $1,600 to $2,400 off battery installation costs for households with existing solar systems.
An additional incentive of $250 to $400 is available for connecting the battery to a Virtual Power Plant (VPP). This incentive can often be claimed again after three years.

The PDRS in NSW has increased the battery installation rate compared to before. Many people claim that households with solar and battery setups can save around $1,500 annually under this scheme.

Are there any upcoming rebates available for NSW residents? Let’s check out!

SoAR (Solar for Apartment Residents) Grant

Opening from 1 December 2025, the new Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) grant initiative is specifically designed to help NSW communities install rooftop solar systems on multi-unit dwellings.

Here is the detail of the grant:

Grant Name: Solar for Apartment Residents (SoAR) Grant.
Coverage: Funds 50% of the cost of a shared solar PV system on eligible apartment buildings and other multi-unit dwellings in NSW.
Benefit: Helps residents, including renters, lower energy bills and greenhouse gas emissions
Current Uptake: Fewer than 2% of apartment buildings in NSW currently have solar installed.
Why It Matters: Rising energy costs and a growing apartment population underscore the need for innovative solar solutions.
Funding Pool: $25 million total grant funding available.
Grant Limit: Up to $150,000 per project.
Funding Partners: Jointly funded by the Australian Government and the NSW Government.

However, the application window opened on 28 February 2025 and will close at 5:00 pm on 1 December 2025, or sooner if the funding is fully allocated. Therefore, act quickly and apply before the portal closes.

Takeaway Thoughts

Not to mention, these government efforts and financial support present a golden opportunity for solar and battery adoption among NSW and Victorian residents.

Additionally, the generous federal incentives combined with state programs significantly reduce upfront costs, empowering households to make the switch.

These combined thoughtful efforts are also contributing to the country meeting its renewable energy targets and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Wanna join this green revolution? It’s high time now!

So, if you have any questions or concerns about the solar rebates and schemes, please don’t hesitate to contact Cyanergy today.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post Off-Grid Solar Power Simplified – Off-Grid 101 appeared first on Cyanergy.

Off-Grid Solar Power Simplified – Off-Grid 101

Renewable Energy

Offshore Turbine Toilets, BlackRock’s $38B Acquisition

Published

1 day ago

October 6, 2025

Alice Rush

Weather Guard Lightning Tech

Offshore Turbine Toilets, BlackRock’s $38B Acquisition

OEG celebrates 500 offshore turbine toilet installations while BlackRock acquires AES for $38 billion, signaling continued investment despite global wind auction slowdowns and European wind droughts.

Sign up now for Uptime Tech News, our weekly email update on all things wind technology. This episode is sponsored by Weather Guard Lightning Tech. Learn more about Weather Guard’s StrikeTape Wind Turbine LPS retrofit. Follow the show on Facebook, YouTube, Twitter, Linkedin and visit Weather Guard on the web. And subscribe to Rosemary Barnes’ YouTube channel here. Have a question we can answer on the show? Email us!

Welcome to Uptime News. Flash Industry News Lightning fast. Your host, Allen Hall, shares the renewable industry news you may have missed.

Allen Hall 2025: There’s good news today from the wind energy sector, and it starts of all places with toilets. OEG and Aberdeen Headquartered company just reached a milestone. They’ve installed their 500th in turbine welfare unit across the UK’s offshore wind sector. If you’ve ever worked on an offshore wind turbine, you know why this matters.

These aren’t just convenience facilities. Their dignity and their safety. The other difference between a dangerous transfer to a standby vessel and staying on the job. The units operate in the harshest offshore conditions with no external power or water. Nine offshore wind farms now have these facilities and they’re making offshore work accessible for [00:01:00] women helping retain a more diverse workforce.

And while OEG celebrates 500 installations, something much larger is happening in the American Midwest. Gulf Pacific Power. Just completed a major transaction with NL Green Power North America. Gulf Pacific acquired all of E L’s interest in five operating wind facilities, totaling over 800 megawatts of capacity.

The portfolio includes Prairie Rose in Minnesota, Goodwill and Origin, and Rocky Ridge in Oklahoma, and a facility in North Dakota. Projects with long-term power purchase agreements and high credit counterparties. And then there’s BlackRock. The world’s largest asset manager is placing a $38 billion bet on American clean energy.

They’re close to acquiring power Giant a ES, which have give BlackRock ownership of nearly eight gigawatts of wind power capacity. A [00:02:00] ES leads in sign deals with data center customers with artificial intelligence driving unprecedented electricity demand. That positioning matters.

The weather numbers tell their own story about wind’s challenging year. Most of Europe recorded wind speeds four to 8% below normal in the first half of this year. The wind drought curtailed generation in Germany, Spain, France, and the United Kingdom. But the Northeastern United States saw winds seven to 10% above average in parts of Norway, Sweden, and Northern China also benefited.

And in storm, Amy, which is passing through the uk, it drove wholesale electricity prices negative for 17 hours. 20 gigawatts of wind power flooded the grid and the grid paid users to consume electricity. Too much wind, not enough demand. The offshore wind industry faces real headwinds. Global awards fell more than 70% in the first nine months of this year.

Of about 20 gigawatts of expected auctions, [00:03:00] only 2.2 gigawatts have been awarded. Germany, the Netherlands and Denmark are preparing new frameworks to restore investor confidence and Japan designated two promising offshore zones, but confidence there is still shaken when Mitsubishi pulled out of its first auction due to some sorry costs.

So here’s what we have. An Aberdeen company celebrating 500 toilet installations that transform working conditions. A Midwestern power company expanding its wind portfolio by 800 megawatts and the world’s largest asset manager, betting $38 billion on American energy infrastructure.

All while offshore auctions stall globally, all while Europe experiences a wind drought and the UK experiences at times too much wind. The sector faces challenges US federal opposition, variable weather, and market slowdowns, but the fundamentals haven’t changed. Data centers. Need power and [00:04:00]someone has to generate those megawatts and companies are still buying wind farms.

Asset managers, are still making billion dollar bets, and engineers are still improving infrastructure. One toilet at a time. When a company celebrates its 500th toilet installation, it’s about commitment to an industry they believe has a future. When investors acquire 800 megawatts of operating capacity, they’re betting on tomorrow.

And when the world’s largest asset manager places a $38 billion bet. They’re looking past the turbulence to see the demand. 500 reasons to believe each one installed in a turbine tower. Each one making life better for workers in harsh conditions.

Each. One. A sign that this industry isn’t going anywhere.

https://weatherguardwind.com/offshore-toilets-blackrock/