Published

2 years ago

February 17, 2024

Alice Rush

Powering the Future: A Look at the World’s Largest Renewable Energy Facilities

The fight against climate change and the growing demand for clean energy have spurred the development of incredible renewable energy facilities around the globe.

These massive projects showcase the potential of solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable sources to power our future.

The fight for a sustainable future is being fueled by giants. The world’s largest renewable energy facilities stand as testaments to human ingenuity and our growing commitment to clean power. From the sprawling solar parks of India to the behemoth wind farms of the UK, these projects showcase the immense potential of renewable sources to power our planet.

India takes center stage with two solar giants – Bhadla Solar Park, the undisputed king with a capacity to power over 1.3 million homes, and Pavagada Solar Park, not far behind at 2.05 GW. China enters the picture with Huanghe Hydropower Hainan Solar Park, a unique hybrid marvel combining solar and hydropower for optimized energy production. Meanwhile, the UK and China battle it out in the wind sector, with Hornsea 2 Offshore Wind Farm boasting 1.386 GW and Gansu Wind Farm showcasing its 8 GW onshore might.

These are just a glimpse of the incredible strides being made in renewable energy. These titans pave the way for a future powered by clean sources, but remember, smaller-scale solutions also play a crucial role. It’s a collective effort, and every step towards renewables, big or small, brings us closer to a sustainable tomorrow.

Key Indicator for World’s Largest Renewable Energy Facilities

Defining the “key indicator” for the world’s largest renewable energy facilities depends on your perspective and goals. Here are some different ways to approach it:

Technical performance:

Capacity: Measured in Gigawatts (GW), it represents the maximum power output a facility can theoretically generate. This is the most common metric for comparing the sheer size of facilities.

Capacity factor: It measures the actual energy produced versus its maximum potential, expressed as a percentage. A higher capacity factor indicates better efficiency and utilization of resources.

Energy yield: Similar to capacity factor, but based on energy produced per unit installed capacity (e.g., kWh/kW). It compares facilities based on their efficiency in capturing and converting renewable energy.

Project success:

Return on Investment (ROI): Evaluates the financial viability of the project, considering initial costs, energy production, and operational expenses.

Levelized Cost of Energy (LCOE): Measures the average cost per unit of electricity generated over the project’s lifetime, reflecting operational efficiency and affordability.

Environmental impact: Measures the facility’s impact on carbon emissions, land use, and biodiversity, highlighting its contribution to sustainability goals.

Societal impact:

Job creation: The number of jobs created during construction and operation of the facility, contributing to local economic development.

Energy security: The facility’s contribution to a country’s or region’s energy independence and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Community engagement: The level of involvement and benefits provided to local communities around the facility.

Ultimately, the “key indicator” depends on your specific interests and priorities. If you’re focused on technical performance, capacity and capacity factor are crucial. If financial viability matters most, ROI and LCOE take center stage. And if your concern is sustainability, environmental impact and community engagement become vital.

Remember, no single metric defines the “best” facility. A truly successful project balances technical performance, financial viability, and positive societal impact.

World’s Largest Renewable Energy Facilities

Let’s take a tour of some of the biggest and most impressive Renewable Energy Facilities

Solar Giants:

Bhadla Solar Park, India: Taking the crown as the world’s largest solar park, Bhadla boasts a staggering capacity of 2.25 gigawatts (GW), spread across a sprawling 14,000 acres in Rajasthan. This behemoth can power over 1.3 million homes!

Huanghe Hydropower Hainan Solar Park, China: Combining the might of solar and hydropower, this unique hybrid park in China integrates a 2.2 GW solar power plant with a 1 GW pumped-storage hydropower facility. This synergy optimizes energy production and storage.

Pavagada Solar Park, India: Another Indian marvel, Pavagada comes in at a close third with a capacity of 2.05 GW. Located in Karnataka, it features over 3.4 million solar panels spread across 13,000 acres, generating enough electricity to power 500,000 homes.

Wind Warriors:

Hornsea 2 Offshore Wind Farm, United Kingdom: Holding the title of the world’s largest offshore wind farm, Hornsea 2 in the North Sea packs a punch with a capacity of 1.386 GW. Its 167 turbines can power over 1.3 million homes, significantly contributing to the UK’s renewable energy goals.

Gansu Wind Farm, China: This onshore titan in China boasts a capacity of 8 GW, generated by over 7,000 wind turbines spread across an area larger than Luxembourg. Its sheer scale highlights the potential of wind power for large-scale electricity generation.

Hydropower Heros:

Three Gorges Dam, China: The undisputed king of hydropower, the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River generates a whopping 22.5 GW of electricity, enough to power millions of homes and businesses. While its environmental impact is debated, its contribution to China’s renewable energy portfolio is undeniable.

Itaipu Dam, Brazil and Paraguay: A marvel of international cooperation, the Itaipu Dam on the Paraná River boasts a capacity of 14 GW, shared between Brazil and Paraguay. This hydroelectric giant provides clean energy to both countries and showcases the potential of cross-border collaboration.

Largest Renewable Energy Facilities by Various Metrics

Metric	Facility Name	Location	Capacity (MW)	Annual Generation (TWh)	Area (km²)	Notes
Hydropower (Installed Capacity)	Three Gorges Dam	China	23,000	100	–	World’s largest hydroelectric facility.
Hydropower (Annual Generation)	Three Gorges Dam	China	23,000	100	–	Maintains its lead in energy production.
Solar PV (Installed Capacity)	Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park	United Arab Emirates	5,625 (expected upon completion)	–	70	Currently under construction, will surpass Noor Abu Dhabi upon completion.
Solar PV (Annual Generation)	Longyangxia Dam Solar Park	China	2,200	34	–	Largest operational solar park currently.
Wind (Installed Capacity)	Hornsea 2 Offshore Wind Farm	United Kingdom	1,386	–	462	World’s largest operational offshore wind farm.
Wind (Annual Generation)	Gansu Wind Farm Cluster	China	–	200	–	Cluster of multiple wind farms, making it the largest producer.
Geothermal (Installed Capacity)	Cerro Prieto Geothermal Field	Mexico	890	–	–	Largest single geothermal field.
Geothermal (Annual Generation)	Cerro Prieto Geothermal Field	Mexico	890	9	–	Leads in annual geothermal energy production.

Additional Considerations:

Data Availability: Not all facilities consistently report data across all categories. Some values might be estimates or missing.

Project Stages: Some facilities are under construction or expansion, so capacities and generation might increase in the future.

Single Facilities vs. Clusters: Some “largest” titles refer to individual facilities, while others encompass clusters of multiple installations.

Focus on Specific Technologies: This data highlights leading examples in each category, but other notable facilities exist for various renewable energy types.

Data Sources:

REN21 Global Status Report: [https://www.ren21.net/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/GSR2022_Full_Report.pdf]

IRENA Renewable Energy Statistics: [https://www.irena.org/publications/2022/Apr/Renewable-Capacity-Statistics-2022]

IEA Renewables: [https://www.iea.org/energy-system/renewables]

Individual project websites and news articles

Looking Ahead:

These are just a few examples of the incredible progress being made in the world of renewable energy. As technology advances and investment increases, we can expect even larger and more efficient facilities to emerge, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible and paving the way for a sustainable future.

Beyond the Big:

It’s important to remember that large-scale facilities aren’t the only players in the renewable energy game. Distributed generation, where smaller systems power individual homes and communities, is also crucial for a diverse and resilient energy grid. So, while these giants capture our imagination, let’s not forget the smaller-scale solutions that are also making a big difference.

https://www.exaputra.com/2024/02/worlds-largest-renewable-energy.html

Renewable Energy

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Published

10 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Most Americans, me included, are puzzled as to how the Trump administration can openly thumb its nose to the findings of our courts. Until recently, behavior like this would have wound you up in jail.

Before Trump, “Contempt of Court” Used to Be a Big Deal

Renewable Energy

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Published

16 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

Over the decades, many households across Victoria have resided in older suburban homes equipped with traditional ducted gas heating and aging split-system air conditioners.

However, today the scenario has changed significantly. As energy prices rise, families are feeling the pinch, with annual heating and cooling costs often rising $2,000.

But what are the main issues?

Gas systems that waste energy heating unused rooms, old non-inverter aircons that struggle to maintain even temperatures, and confusion among residents about how rebates, such as the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, actually work.

That’s where trusted providers like Cyanergy Australia step in!

By replacing outdated systems with efficient reverse-cycle multi-split air-conditioning and applying VEU rebates, we help many households to cut energy bills, reduce emissions, and enjoy year-round comfort, all in one smart upgrade.

This air conditioning upgrade can lead to a smoother transition from gas to clean, efficient electric heating and cooling, building a smarter, more sustainable home.

So, let’s break down how the household saved $1,200 with the VEU & Air-Con upgrade, what the program offers, and how you can take advantage of similar rebates to cut costs and enjoy a more energy-efficient home.

In this blog post:

Cyanergy’s Energy Assessment: What We Found!

From the beginning, Cyanergy’s focus was to remove or disconnect the old gas ducted heater, install a modern
reverse-cycle multi-split air conditioning system, claim the VEU discount, and significantly reduce your annual
energy bills.

Simply via the effective air-conditioner upgrade, households can “Save
up to $2,000 a year on your energy bill.

Here are the findings after Cyanergy’s initial home energy visit:

In many Victorian households, the ducted
gas heater is still in use, with high standing and fuel costs.
The older split system had poor efficiency. Some of them were oversized for the room and lacked zoning
options.
The electrical switchboard had spare capacity to support a multi-split installation. For example, one
outdoor unit
with multiple indoor units for different zones.

Home Heating & Cooling Upgrade| The Step-by-Step Path

It’s well-known that the upgrade path usually involves replacing old systems with modern, energy-efficient solutions.

So, from gas to an energy-efficient electric system, let’s have a look at the upgrade story:

Choosing the right system

For the households that want to upgrade under the VEU air
conditioner rebate, we proposed a multi-split reverse-cycle system:

One efficient outdoor inverter unit connected to three indoor units

One in the main living area, one serving the upstairs bedrooms, and

One for the downstairs zone, which had very little heating or cooling.

Going multi-split provides flexibility: you only run the zones you need, resulting in lower energy
consumption.

However, in Victoria, Cyanergy is a renowned company that handles design, quoting, installation, and also guides
families through rebate
eligibility.

Decommissioning the old gas ducted heater

As part of eligibility for the VEU discount, the existing gas heater needed to be decommissioned in most cases.

This involves removing the system or disconnecting the ducted unit from the gas supply, following proper procedures
and obtaining certification, and utilizing expert installers.

Installation Process & Timing Period

Initially, after checking the eligibility, apply for the quotes.

The quote needs to be accepted and dated.

Then the installers will remove the old ducted heater, seal off the vents, and remove or disconnect the gas
appliance.

The outdoor inverter unit should be mounted externally in these households. The indoor units need to be
installed in each zone, minimising the intrusion of ductwork and piping.

The wiring and electrical breaker must be upgraded as needed.

The system will then be commissioned, and the necessary documentation will be submitted to the accredited provider for the VEU scheme.

Choosing efficiency over just cooling

Rather than improving just cooling, the Victorian households treated the upgrade as a heating & cooling renovation, switching to a system that uses electricity rather than gas.

Modern inverter systems are more efficient, as they modulate their output, offer better zoning, and can both heat and cool, allowing you to enjoy both winter comfort and summer cooling in one system.

At Cyanergy, we emphasise this home upgrade path:

“Efficient and Eco-Friendly Electric Multi-Split Air Conditioner. Take advantage of up to $7,200 in Victorian Government Energy Upgrade incentives, save big this winter on your gas bill.”

Out-of-pocket and rebate

Here is recent data from the average estimation for a household from the aircon rebate case study in Victoria.

In the quotation, the family had an installation cost of approximately $8,000 for the new multi-split system, including the decommissioning.

The VEU discount for gas-ducted to multi-split upgrades in Victoria was approximately $2,500.

So, their net out-of-pocket cost was ($8,000 – $2,500), which is approx $5,500.

How to Apply for the VEU Rebate: Are You Eligible?

The Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program provides rebates for eligible energy-efficient upgrades such as
installing a high-efficiency reverse-cycle air conditioner to replace an older heating or cooling system.

Before we discuss how
the rebate works, here are the eligibility criteria.

So, to qualify under the VEU program:

The property must be more than two years old.
The existing heating or cooling system must be removed or replaced.
The new system must be an eligible high-efficiency reverse-cycle unit installed by an accredited
provider.

How the Rebate Works

In this case, the quote from Cyanergy already included the VEU discount, meaning the price shown was the net cost
after applying the rebate allocated to the installer.

After installation:

The accredited provider registers the upgrade with the VEU program.
They create and claim Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs) for the upgrade.
The value of those certificates is passed on to the customer as an instant discount on the invoice.

The homeowner simply has to:

Signs off that the old system was removed or decommissioned.
Provides any required evidence or documentation, like serial numbers or photos.

The Result

The rebate is applied instantly at the point of installation, reducing the upfront cost — no need for the homeowner
to submit a separate claim.

Why is the VEU rebate significant?

Rebates like this make a big difference in the decision-making process. As the website says:

On average, households that upgrade
can save between $120 and $1,100 per year on their energy bills.

Additionally, the government factsheet notes that households can save between $120 and over $1,000 annually,
depending on the type of system and upgrade.

Thus, the rebate reduces the payback period, making the system more widely available.

Energy Bill Before vs After: See the Savings!

Here’s where the real story says: the household’s actual bills before and after the upgrade.

Before Adding Air Conditioning System

Ducted gas heating and an older split system.
In Victoria during winter months, the average monthly gas cost is approximately $125, and for electricity,
and other supplementary costs, an additional $30. So roughly $155 per winter month. Therefore, over the
course of four months, the price can reach nearly $620.
In summer cooling months, if their older split system ran for 2 hours per day, for example, from May to
October, it would cost around $50 per month. Over the 6 months, it will be, $300.
Total annual heating and cooling cost is approximately $920

After Adding the Air Conditioning System

Household that installed a Multi-split reverse-cycle system.
During the winter months, running the zones efficiently and utilizing the inverter system resulted in a
decrease in heating electricity costs.

Let’s say the average is around $70 per month over four months, totaling approximately $280.

In the summer months, efficient cooling costs approximately $30 per month over six months, totaling around
$180.
So, the annual heating
and cooling cost is approximately $460.

Net Savings

Annual savings: $920 (before) – $460 (after) = $460 per year.

At that rate, the upgrade pays for itself in net savings and an upfront rebate.

However, as they also removed gas connection fees and standing charges, improving comfort, therefore, the “effective”
savings were perceived to be higher, around $1,200 in the first year with the air conditioning upgrade.

This figure also includes avoided gas standing charges of $150, lower maintenance costs of the old system, and
improved efficiency.

Maximising Your Savings| Key Insights from the VEU Rebate Program

Based on the case study and Cyanergy’s experience, here are some lessons and actionable tips for homeowners
considering an upgrade.

Don’t wait until your system dies.

Replace outdated or inefficient gas or electric resistance systems immediately. Once the system starts
failing, you
may have fewer options or higher installation disruption.

Choose a provider who handles the rebates.

Dealing with the rebate or discount component (VEU) on your own adds complexity, like documentation,
compliance, and
installation. So look for an accredited provider.

Understand the actual savings potential.

It’s not just the rebate amount; consider running costs, efficiency improvements, zoning, and the ability to
heat and
cool.

Ensure proper sizing and zone control.

As many families discovered, the benefit came from zoning: you only heat and cool rooms you use. Oversized
units or
whole-home heating can reduce savings.

Factor in non-energy benefits.

Better comfort, for example, quieter systems and more consistent temperatures, as well as the removal of gas
standing
charges, less
maintenance, and improved resale appeal for eco-conscious buyers, all benefit you.

Check the accreditation and compliance.

With rebate programs, there’s always a risk of non-compliant installations or companies that don’t follow
through.

So, do your homework: check that the installer is accredited for VEU, ask for references, and ensure that the
documentation is completed appropriately.

Request detailed quotes that include estimates for both “before rebate” and “after rebate”
costs.

This helps you see how much you’re actually paying, the discount you receive, and ensures transparency. The
rebate is
not always the full difference; minimum contribution rules apply.

Monitor your bills after installation.

Keep track of your energy bills (gas & electricity) before and after for at least 12 months. This will
indicate
whether the savings are as expected and aid in budgeting.

Be realistic about pay-back

Although the rebate helps upfront, large systems still cost thousands of dollars. Don’t expect payback in one
or two
years (unless you have extreme usage).

However, with a well-designed system, rebates, and efficiency gains, a payback of 5-10 years or better is
possible,
depending on usage.

Final Notes

This aircon rebate case study illustrates the VEU saving. By working with Cyanergy Australia, households transformed a traditional, inefficient gas-ducted heating and older split cooling system into a modern, efficient, zone-controlled multi-split reverse-cycle air-conditioning system.

This was made more affordable through the VEU scheme discount.

The result? A net cost of around $5,500, improved comfort, and savings of approximately $1,200 in the first year.

This real-world “VEU saving example” shows that:

Rebates matter as they make the upgrade financially viable.
Efficiency matters as modern multi-split reverse-cycle systems deliver lower running costs.
Removing inefficient gas heating can unlock significant savings.
A reliable installer who navigates the rebate process effectively is crucial.

So, if you are looking for an accredited provider in Australia, Cyanergy is here to help!

Contact us today to receive a free solar quote. We will handle all your paperwork to ensure a fast and smooth installation process.

Your Solution Is Just a Click Away

The post How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade? appeared first on Cyanergy.

How Households Saved $1,200 with VEU & Air-Con Upgrade?

Renewable Energy

Air Power

Published

21 hours ago

November 28, 2025

Alice Rush

About 20 years ago, a friend asked me if I was aware that cars could run on air. I asked, delicately, what she meant, and she explained that cars can run on compressed air.

“Ah,” I replied. “Of course they can. But where does the energy come from that compresses the air?” End of conversation.

Now, it’s back. Now there are enormous swaths of the population who know so little about middle school science that they believe we can put cars on the road, in an ocean of air, and extract energy out of that air to power our automobiles.

If you’re among these morons and want to invest with some heavy-duty fraud/charlatans, here’s your opportunity. They say that it’s “self-sustaining and needs no fuel.” If that makes sense to you, be my guest.