What is Sustainable mean
Sustainability refers to the ability to meet the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In other words, sustainability involves using resources in a way that does not deplete them or cause irreparable harm to the environment or society.
Sustainable practices involve making decisions and taking actions that are mindful of their impact on the environment, social equity, and economic viability over the long term. This can include reducing waste, conserving natural resources, promoting renewable energy, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and supporting social and economic development that benefits everyone, not just a select few.
Sustainability is a complex and multifaceted concept that requires interdisciplinary collaboration and a systemic approach to problem-solving. It is increasingly seen as a necessary framework for addressing some of the most pressing challenges facing humanity, including climate change, biodiversity loss, social inequality, and economic instability.
What is Sustainable Agriculture
Sustainable agriculture is a farming system that uses methods and techniques that are environmentally responsible, socially just, and economically viable. It is a system of farming that aims to produce food and fiber in a way that preserves the natural resources and biodiversity, enhances soil fertility, and promotes the well-being of farmers and communities.
Sustainable agriculture practices involve a range of techniques, such as crop rotation, integrated pest management, agroforestry, and conservation tillage, that minimize the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. It also involves using natural inputs, such as compost and cover crops, to enhance soil fertility, reduce erosion, and conserve water.
Sustainable agriculture also emphasizes the importance of maintaining biodiversity, protecting natural habitats, and promoting the well-being of animals and farm workers. It recognizes the interdependence of social, economic, and environmental factors in agriculture, and seeks to balance these factors to achieve long-term sustainability.
Sustainable agriculture is a holistic approach to farming that aims to promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability while producing healthy and nutritious food for people and animals.
Sustainable Agriculture in Chile
Chile has a diverse agricultural sector that is important for the country’s economy and food security. However, like many other countries, Chile faces a range of environmental, social, and economic challenges associated with conventional agricultural practices, such as soil degradation, water scarcity, biodiversity loss, and farmer poverty.
To address these challenges, there is a growing interest in sustainable agriculture in Chile. Sustainable agriculture in Chile involves the use of techniques and practices that promote environmental, social, and economic sustainability while ensuring food security and improving farmers’ livelihoods.
Some examples of sustainable agriculture practices in Chile include:
Organic farming: Organic farming in Chile is on the rise, with many farmers switching to organic production methods to reduce their reliance on synthetic fertilizers and pesticides and to meet growing demand for organic products.
Agroforestry: Agroforestry involves integrating trees into agricultural landscapes to improve soil health, reduce erosion, and provide shade and habitat for wildlife. In Chile, agroforestry is being used in fruit and nut production, as well as in traditional crop systems.
Conservation tillage: Conservation tillage involves reducing the amount of soil disturbance during planting to improve soil health and reduce erosion. In Chile, conservation tillage is being used in cereal and legume production.
Water conservation: Chile is a water-scarce country, and sustainable agriculture practices aim to conserve water resources through techniques such as drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and soil moisture monitoring.
Biodiversity conservation: Sustainable agriculture in Chile involves protecting and enhancing biodiversity through measures such as crop rotation, intercropping, and the use of cover crops.
Sustainable agriculture in Chile is a growing movement that seeks to address the environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the country’s agricultural sector. By promoting sustainable agriculture practices, Chile can improve food security, protect natural resources, and enhance the livelihoods of farmers and rural communities.
Sustainable Agriculture in Chile – Goverment Policy and Regulation
The Chilean government has developed policies and regulations to promote sustainable agriculture practices and to address environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the country’s agricultural sector.
Some examples of government policies and regulations related to sustainable agriculture in Chile are:
National Program for Sustainable Agriculture (PNAS): The PNAS is a government program that promotes sustainable agriculture practices and provides technical assistance, training, and funding to farmers who adopt sustainable practices.
Organic Agriculture Law: In 2017, Chile passed an Organic Agriculture Law that provides a legal framework for the production, certification, and marketing of organic products. The law aims to promote organic farming practices, protect consumer rights, and ensure the quality and safety of organic products.
Water Code: The Water Code is a legal framework that regulates water use in Chile. The code seeks to ensure sustainable water management and to protect water resources for future generations.
National Biodiversity Strategy: The National Biodiversity Strategy is a government program that aims to promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable use in Chile. The strategy includes measures to protect and restore natural habitats, promote sustainable agriculture practices, and support research and education related to biodiversity conservation.
Agricultural and Livestock Service (SAG): The SAG is a government agency that regulates and promotes sustainable agricultural practices in Chile. The SAG is responsible for implementing regulations related to plant and animal health, promoting sustainable livestock practices, and certifying organic products.
The Chilean government has taken steps to promote sustainable agriculture practices and to address the environmental, social, and economic challenges facing the country’s agricultural sector. By implementing policies and regulations that promote sustainable agriculture, the government can help to ensure a more resilient and sustainable agricultural sector for future generations.
Data for Sustainable Agriculture in Chile
Here are some data related to sustainable agriculture in Chile:
Organic Agriculture
According to the latest available data from 2020, Chile has a total of 617,271 hectares of certified organic agricultural land, which represents about 2.3% of the country’s total agricultural land. The main organic crops in Chile are grapes, avocados, blueberries, and apples.
Agricultural Exports
Agriculture is an important sector for Chile’s economy, and the country is a major exporter of agricultural products. In 2020, Chile’s agricultural exports amounted to US$18.6 billion, with the main export products being fresh fruit, wine, salmon, and nuts.
Water Use
Agriculture is the largest consumer of water in Chile, accounting for about 70% of the country’s total water use. However, the government has implemented policies and regulations to promote more efficient and sustainable water use in agriculture, such as drip irrigation and soil moisture monitoring.
Biodiversity
Chile is one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, with a high number of endemic species and unique ecosystems. However, agriculture and other human activities have put pressure on the country’s biodiversity. According to the latest available data, about 60% of Chile’s forests have been lost or degraded, and many of the country’s native species are threatened with extinction.
Sustainable Agriculture Programs
The Chilean government has implemented several programs to promote sustainable agriculture practices, such as the National Program for Sustainable Agriculture (PNAS), which provides technical assistance and funding to farmers who adopt sustainable practices. In 2019, the PNAS supported 8,228 farmers, covering a total of 248,937 hectares of agricultural land.
These data show that sustainable agriculture is becoming increasingly important in Chile, as the country seeks to balance economic development with environmental and social sustainability.
Sustainable Agriculture in Chile – Company Contribution
Many companies in Chile are making contributions to sustainable agriculture through various initiatives and practices. Some examples of company contributions to sustainable agriculture in Chile are:
Corporate Social Responsibilit
(CSR) Programs: Many companies in Chile have CSR programs that include initiatives to promote sustainable agriculture. These programs may involve supporting small-scale farmers, promoting organic farming practices, or investing in research and development of sustainable agriculture technologies.
Environmental Certification
Some companies in Chile have obtained environmental certifications, such as ISO 14001 or the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, which require them to meet specific environmental standards, including sustainable agriculture practices.
Sustainable Sourcing
Some companies in Chile are committed to sourcing their raw materials from sustainable sources. For example, some companies in the wine and fruit industries have implemented sustainable sourcing programs that ensure their suppliers meet certain environmental and social criteria.
Carbon Offsetting
Some companies in Chile are investing in carbon offsetting programs to mitigate their greenhouse gas emissions. These programs may include supporting sustainable forestry projects, such as reforestation or agroforestry, that promote sustainable agriculture practices.
Innovation and Research
Some companies in Chile are investing in research and development of sustainable agriculture technologies. For example, some companies are developing new irrigation systems that use less water or investing in research on natural pest control methods.
Many companies in Chile are making contributions to sustainable agriculture through various initiatives and practices. By investing in sustainable agriculture, companies can improve their environmental performance, enhance their reputation, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the agricultural sector in Chile.
Sustainable Agriculture in Chile – Supporting Company
There are several companies in Chile that are known for their commitment to sustainable agriculture.
Here are some examples of companies that support sustainable agriculture in Chile:
Agricom: Agricom is a Chilean company that produces and exports fresh fruits and vegetables. The company is committed to sustainable agriculture practices and has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact, such as using drip irrigation systems, promoting integrated pest management, and investing in renewable energy.
Santa Carolina: Santa Carolina is a Chilean winery that has implemented a range of sustainable agriculture practices, such as using organic fertilizers, implementing water conservation measures, and promoting biodiversity conservation. The company has also obtained several environmental certifications, including ISO 14001 and the Wines of Chile Sustainable Code.
Unilever: Unilever is a multinational company that operates in Chile and is committed to sustainable agriculture practices. The company has implemented initiatives to promote sustainable sourcing of raw materials, reduce waste, and promote biodiversity conservation. Unilever is also a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and is committed to sourcing only RSPO-certified palm oil.
Copec: Copec is a Chilean energy and forestry company that has implemented sustainable agriculture practices in its forestry operations. The company has obtained several environmental certifications, including FSC certification, and has implemented initiatives to promote reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and sustainable forest management.
Nestle: Nestle is a multinational food and beverage company that operates in Chile and is committed to sustainable agriculture practices. The company has implemented initiatives to promote sustainable sourcing of raw materials, reduce waste, and promote biodiversity conservation. Nestle is also a member of the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and is committed to sourcing only RSPO-certified palm oil.
These companies are just a few examples of those that are committed to sustainable agriculture practices in Chile. By supporting sustainable agriculture, these companies are not only reducing their environmental impact, but also contributing to the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector in Chile.
Conclusion for Sustainable Agriculture in Chile
Sustainable agriculture is an important issue in Chile, given the country’s heavy dependence on agriculture and the potential environmental impact of intensive farming practices.
The Chilean government has implemented policies and regulations to promote sustainable agriculture, including initiatives to support small-scale farmers and promote organic farming practices. Many companies in Chile are also making contributions to sustainable agriculture through initiatives such as corporate social responsibility programs, environmental certifications, sustainable sourcing, carbon offsetting, and innovation and research.
Several companies in Chile are known for their commitment to sustainable agriculture, including Agricom, Santa Carolina, Unilever, Copec, and Nestle. By supporting sustainable agriculture, these companies are contributing to the long-term sustainability of the agricultural sector in Chile, reducing their environmental impact, and enhancing their reputation.
Sustainable agriculture is critical for the long-term health and prosperity of the agricultural sector in Chile, and it is encouraging to see both the government and private sector taking action to promote sustainable practices. By continuing to invest in sustainable agriculture, Chile can improve the health of its natural resources, support small-scale farmers, and promote economic development in the country
https://www.exaputra.com/2023/05/sustainable-agriculture-in-chile.html
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.”
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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/
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.
In this blog post:
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.
Here’s a list of what you’re missing out on without a solar battery:
- Energy Independence
- Maximized Savings
- Better Return on Investment ROI
- Lower Carbon Footprint
- Peace of Mind
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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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.
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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.
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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?
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.
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