EcoGeneration Oct 2025

ENERGY AUSTRALIA

From the editor

Welcome to the latest edition of ecogeneration

This issue lands as Australia’s clean energy sector accelerates into a defining decade. From electric vehicles to grid rewiring, the challenges are as immense as the opportunities.

We begin in Melbourne, where All Energy Australia once again gathers the world’s renewable leaders. This edition brings some extra details as delegates debate the next phase of EV infrastructure, the rise of real-time data in operations, and the role of international partnerships.

The conversation around transmission is sharper than ever. We look at why building new lines is essential to unlocking renewables, and how national providers are stepping up to deliver trusted and tailored services.

Victoria has released a 15-year roadmap, while a decade of investment is laid out for New South Wales – critical moves as states and Federal Government wrestle with the speed of the transition.

On the technology front, this issue tracks how innovation is reshaping the market. From a new entry into Australian storage to advances in back contact solar, the pace of change is undeniable. We also explore partnerships powering local supply chains, and how international players are adapting their strategies for the Australian context.

For installers, the magazine brings the latest product developments, including upgradeable inverter technology, flow-based energy solutions, and emerging devices designed to improve safety and efficiency on rooftops. Climate ambition remains a central theme: with 2030 targets looming, our contributors argue that delay is no longer an option.

This issue’s coverage reflects both scale and urgency. Transition is not only about megawatts and gigawatts – it’s about timing, trust, and the capacity of industry to collaborate across borders and sectors. Whether in the control room, on transmission lines, or on suburban rooftops, progress depends on clear strategy and bold investment.

The next decade will test Australia’s resolve, but as this issue shows, momentum is building – and the energy transition is no longer a distant ambition, but a very present reality.

Tim Hall ecogeneration Editor

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ecogeneration acknowledges the Cammeraygal people, traditional custodians of the land on which this publication is produced, and we pay our respects to their elders past and present. We extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people today.

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News in brief

NEW TECHNOLOGY, NEW PROJECTS, NEW IDEAS

Waratah Super Battery playing world-first protection role

Half of the Waratah Super Battery is now live, providing a critical “shock absorber” function for New South Wales’ highvoltage network.

The first 350 megawatt (MW) (700 megawatt-hour) tranche of the 850MW/1680MWh system has entered service ahead of full commissioning later this year.

Located on the site of the former Munmorah coal-fired power station, the battery is the most powerful utility-scale energy storage system in the world and the first of its scale used to increase network capacity.

Commissioned by the NSW Government through EnergyCo and operated by Akaysha Energy, the project is designed as a System Integrity Protection Scheme (SIPS).

The SIPS monitors 36 transmission lines in real time, ready to inject up to 700MW of guaranteed capacity within seconds of events such as lightning strikes, bushfires or major faults.

Paired generation agreements allow the control system to simultaneously instruct generators to reduce output, balancing load and frequency.

“This achievement is the result of a tremendous collective effort spanning our global business units across all areas such

as delivery, engineering, commercial and legal, technical integration, grid modelling, software, operations and trading,” said Akaysha Energy CEO Nick Carter.

Transgrid has delivered the SIPS control system – the largest and most advanced in Australia – and completed upgrades at 22 substations and four transmission lines to increase capacity.

“Specialist crews have also carried out upgrade work … to deliver additional energy to consumers when it’s needed,” said Transgrid CEO Brett Redman.

Once fully operational, the Waratah Super Battery will provide at least 1400MWh of

HumeLink opens to new connections

The gates have been thrown open for 3000 megawatts (MW) of new renewable generation and storage on Australia’s east coast.

A key section of the $3.3 billion HumeLink transmission project is now open to connection enquiries, providing a pathway for projects to access the National Electricity Market.

HumeLink, a new 500-kilovolt (kV) high-voltage line linking Wagga Wagga, Bannaby and Maragle, has achieved “considered project” status under the National Electricity Rules, enabling proponents to lodge formal applications to connect.

The $3.3 billion project includes 365 kilometres of new transmission lines and new or upgraded infrastructure at four substations.

“HumeLink is a once in a generation investment in Australia’s energy capability, increasing the amount of renewable energy that can be delivered to

the National Electricity Market, and helping move towards a net zero future,” said Transgrid Acting Executive General Manager of Network Jason Krstanoski.

“Once the project is connected to the network, it will unlock the Snowy Hydro Scheme expansion project, Snowy 2.0, which will provide an additional 2200 megawatts of on-demand energy into the grid – enough energy storage to power three million homes for a week.”

The new line will also open up direct connection opportunities for large-scale solar, wind, battery and pumped-hydro projects, improving supply resilience as coal-fired stations close.

Transgrid estimates HumeLink will deliver more than $1 billion in net benefits to consumers through increased access to lower-cost renewable power.

Construction works are due to ramp up within weeks. Transgrid says it is offering industry briefings and free preconnection engagements to help fast-

usable storage.

The system can fully charge in two hours and discharge instantly, capable of supplying 970,000 homes for an hour or 80,000 homes for a day. Its oversizing allows for capacity degradation over time while enabling excess energy to be traded in the National Electricity Market, potentially reducing the cost of SIPS to consumers.

“This is the first of our projects to go into operation, and there are many more to come,” said EnergyCo Chief Executive Hannah McCaughey.

“We look forward to more milestones in our renewable energy zones this year.”

track connections and minimise delays.

“We are working hard to better support our current and future customers to make the connection process as seamless as possible… I encourage proponents of new renewable energy generators and energy storage facilities to start discussions with us to enable direct connection to HumeLink to support electricity generation growth and reliability as demand grows and coal-fired power stations retire,” Krstanoski said.

The Waratah Super Battery will play a world-first protection role, stabilising New South Wales’ grid.

Image: Transgrid Group

HumeLink is creating a pathway for three gigawatts of renewable generation and storage to join Australia’s east coast grid.

Gnarwarre BESS reaches financial close

Samsung Construction and Trading (C&T) has secured the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contract for FRV on Australia’s largest battery storage project.

The Gnarwarre Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) reached financial close in August.

The 250 megawatt (MW)/500 megawatt-hour (MWh) facility in Victoria is designed to deliver grid-forming capability and firming services at scale.

Once operational, it will bring FRV’s total installed solar and storage capacity to about 1.4 gigawatts (GW). It follows the 100 MW/200 MWh Terang BESS currently under construction.

Samsung C&T will deliver the project as a “full-wrap” EPC contractor, providing vendor-agnostic, turnkey solutions.

The company said the contract “showcases our global capabilities in delivering complex, grid-critical energy infrastructure” and marks a “milestone moment” in its Australian market expansion.

The Gnarwarre battery will deliver grid-forming and firming.

The facility will integrate grid-forming inverter technology, enabling it to supply system strength and inertia services traditionally provided by synchronous generation such as coal and gas.

This functionality is a key focus of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency’s Large-Scale Battery Storage Funding Round, which has granted $15 million to the Gnarwarre project.

Financing was secured from a syndicate including Westpac, United Overseas Bank, Intesa Sanpaolo, KfW IPEX-Bank, and Export Development Canada.

The Clean Energy Finance Corporation supported the project during early financing stages before stepping aside when sufficient commercial funding was secured. Legal advisers were White & Case for FRV and Allens for the lenders.

FRV Australia CEO Carlo Frigerio said: “The financial close of Gnarwarre is a major step for FRV Australia as we expand our battery storage projects and strengthen our position as a leader in renewable energy in Australia. Largescale storage like this is essential to provide firming capacity that supports a reliable and clean energy system. This project also helps the State of Victoria reach its ambitious renewable energy and net-zero targets.”

Once complete, Gnarwarre will join FRV’s growing portfolio of integrated generation and storage assets, which includes nine operating PV facilities across Australia and New Zealand and two large-scale batteries totalling 350 MW.

Image: Infrastructure Partnerships Australia

Clean Energy Council welcomes new leadership

The former Deputy Premier of Queensland takes the top role at the Clean Energy Council (CEC) at a pivotal moment in Australia’s energy transition.

With three decades in government, policy and reform, Trad brings significant experience to the peak body for the renewable energy sector.

The appointment was announced by the CEC Board in late August, with Trad to begin in October. Chair Ross Rolfe AO says the decision followed an exhaustive search.

“After an exhaustive executive search, the Board is pleased to announce Jackie’s appointment as the industry’s new CEO,” Rolfe says.

“The Board welcomes Jackie’s addition to the Clean Energy Council who will bring sophistication and focus to the organisation’s efforts as we deliver the new energy system that will power Australia into the future. Jackie brings a wealth of experience in building consensus across a wide group of stakeholders and a deep understanding of policy development and design.”

From policy reform to industry leadership

Trad succeeds Kane Thornton, CEO since 2014, as the sector faces pressure to accelerate project delivery while supporting communities and consumers through change.

“Jackie is also passionate about delivering a smooth and just transition ... to maximise the benefits … and minimise the adverse impacts on Australian consumers and communities,” Rolfe says.

As Deputy Premier and Treasurer of Queensland, Trad helped establish CleanCo, the state-owned renewable company launched in 2018 to expand low-emissions generation. She also allocated $250 million in the 2019 budget to support its growth.

Her record also includes steering reforms in mining rehabilitation law. The 2018 Mineral and Energy Resources (Financial

Provisioning) Act required miners to fund rehabilitation upfront and prepare closure plans – considered a world-leading move for environmental safeguards and community certainty.

“I am incredibly excited to be part of the Clean Energy Council – the leading voice for the companies and organisations delivering the clean energy infrastructure, generation and firming for Australia’s clean energy future,” Trad says.

“As someone with a long-standing commitment to action on climate change, I know we are now in an important period of delivery, where policy reform and impactful advocacy, across governments and within communities, is critical and necessary to achieve a successful jobs and energy transition for Australians.”

Shaping the sector’s next chapter

Her appointment signals continuity with the CEC’s push for clear, ambitious policy and pragmatic delivery. Stakeholders will look to her for outcomes on grid connection, planning approvals, workforce skills and investment certainty.

The CEC represents developers, retailers, manufacturers, investors and service providers across solar, wind, storage and emerging technologies. It advocates for stable policy, streamlined regulation and recognition of renewables’ role in energy security and decarbonisation.

Trad’s consensus-building skills could be critical as the industry addresses land use, community benefit-sharing and grid integration. Her work on mining rehabilitation reforms showed she could forge agreements between groups with competing interests.

Her appointment also comes as state and federal commitments push renewables in the National Electricity Market towards more than 80 per cent by 2030. Meeting those targets requires unprecedented investment in transmission, storage and generation. The CEC has long argued for stronger coordination and faster approvals.

Challenges and opportunities ahead

For the CEC, the appointment reflects both ambition and pragmatism. The council has become one of Australia’s most influential industry groups, shaping regulatory debate, supporting workforce development and ensuring the sector’s voice is heard nationally.

Trad’s first year will be closely watched. Challenges include fixing grid bottlenecks, accelerating transmission investment, scaling up storage and equipping the workforce for record project pipelines.

The CEC must also manage community expectations, land-use tensions, and international competition for capital and supply chains.

With a background that blends policy, politics, reform and leadership, Trad steps in with the tools needed to meet these challenges. As Australia’s energy transition accelerates, her leadership should shape how the sector delivers on national renewable targets while ensuring jobs, communities and consumers remain at the centre.

Jackie Trad has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Clean Energy Council.

The Clean Energy Council’s new CEO, Jackie Trad.

Image: Clean Energy Council

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Global storage giant plants flag in Australia

Fox ESS has established itself as a leading force in Europe’s energy storage market and is now making a determined push into Australia.

Fox ESS, a Chinese-headquartered manufacturer of inverters, batteries, and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, and heat pumps, entered the Australian market in 2022 and is now expanding with intent. Founded in 2019, Fox ESS has grown at speed, securing recognition as one of Europe’s top residential storage brands.

According to Lyren Liu, CoFounder of Fox ESS, the company’s Australian expansion is “a statement of long-term commitment.”

“Australia has always been at the forefront of the global solar market, with the highest solar capacity per capita worldwide. Now, the market is rapidly shifting towards energy storage. As a comprehensive storage solution provider, Fox ESS sees this as the perfect time to expand strongly into Australia,” he says.

The timing is deliberate. With the Cheaper Home Battery Program rebate opening the

door for households to adopt storage at scale, Fox ESS believes it is entering precisely when the market is hungry for credible players.

The company’s expansion rests on three pillars: the right products, the right people, and the right structure.

Fox ESS offers a complete portfolio of battery storage solutions, from the stackable EQ4800-L series with capacities ranging from 9.36 to 41.93 kilowatt-hours (kWh), to the single-pack unit EP11 that can be expanded with up to four parallel units.

The company has also built a dedicated Australian team of 25, local warehousing, local sales, local technical support, and strong partnerships with distribution channels and installers.

This kind of groundwork positions Fox ESS to deliver in Australia as it has in Europe.

“We want distributors, installers and end

users to know that Fox ESS is here for the long term,” Liu says.

Not leaning on offshore call centres, Fox ESS has prioritised boots on the ground.

Eight engineers are based in Melbourne, three in Sydney, two in Brisbane, and one each in Adelaide and Perth. Another 10 experts provide remote support.

“The Australian market is very installerdriven, so we made it a priority to build a 25member nationwide team early on,” says Liu.

“This means when issues arise, installers can reach a local technical expert right away – often in person – ensuring faster resolution and minimal downtime.”

That responsiveness, he argues, will be a defining factor in building trust.

“Installers know support isn’t just a hotline, but a team that can stand beside them. This reliability gives them confidence to adopt and promote Fox ESS solutions.”

Fox ESS is launching into Australia with a full suite of batteries, inverters, and EV chargers.

Battery design shaped by policy Australia’s subsidy regime has shaped Fox ESS’s product roadmap.

The EQ4800 and EP11 batteries, the company’s flagship models for residential users, were designed with the 50-kWh rebate threshold in mind.

Fox ESS believes aligning with Australia’s policy framework was essential to maximise customer benefits – both economically and for efficiency.

The EQ4800 can stack up to 41.93 kWh, while the EP11 scales to 41.6 kWh across four units, both comfortably under the policy cap.

Beyond compliance, the company stresses the emphasis on safety and longevity.

“We adopt multiple layers of protection –including temperature sensors, the dual relay design, and more – to ensure higher safety and reliability,” Liu says.

“More importantly, our BMS [battery management system] algorithm captures accurate battery cell condition data, calculates the optimised behaviour, and allows the battery to work at the most efficient condition, prolonging battery life.”

Fox ESS is not pitching storage in isolation. Its ecosystem includes inverters, batteries, EV chargers, heat pumps, and the ‘Fox Cloud 2.0’ energy management platform.

“With the ‘Fox Cloud 2.0’ artificial intelligence [AI] tool, we provide intelligent energy usage recommendations,” he says .

“Our full ecosystem – integrating inverters, batteries, and electric vehicle chargers – is designed to maximise overall

energy efficiency for Australian households and businesses. This holistic approach goes beyond what solar-only or battery-only providers can offer, delivering smarter and more sustainable solutions.”

This strategy reflects a global shift. In competitive storage markets, companies with integrated portfolios are increasingly favoured for the ability to simplify procurement and management for installers, while giving end users a unified app-driven experience.

Warranty and credibility

One of the hurdles new entrants face in Australia is overcoming scepticism about warranty claims and long-term reliability. Fox ESS is tackling this directly.

“All our products come with a 10-year warranty,” Liu says.

“The battery cell warranty, based on energy throughput, is 20 per cent higher than the industry average, ensuring longterm reliability and peace of mind.”

For installers used to seeing brands arrive and exit, these signals matter. Fox ESS is betting that robust warranties, combined with visible service capacity, will help it sidestep the wariness that often greets new suppliers.

Another marker of seriousness is Fox ESS’s early move into virtual power plant (VPP) partnerships.

The company is already collaborating with four VPP solution providers in Australia, including Amber, Evergen, GloBird Energy, and Reposit, as well as nine distribution

network service providers.

“We plan to continue expanding our integrations in the future,” Liu says.

By opening its systems to aggregators, Fox ESS aims to future-proof its offer.

With state and federal policy leaning heavily into distributed energy resources, VPP participation will soon be an expectation rather than an option.

“It’s important to be open towards VPP providers and aggregators. We are willing to support local integration as well as cloud-tocloud integration,” Liu says.

Making the most of All Energy

This year’s All Energy Australia exhibition is not just another trade show for Fox ESS. The company has chosen the Melbourne event to signal to the market that its Australian story is only just beginning.

In Europe, Fox ESS has already established itself as a credible challenger to incumbents. Its A-Class rating from HTW Berlin and recognition by BloombergNEF as a Tier One battery storage manufacturer have reinforced its global profile.

Yet the company is entering a crowded field, where installer loyalty, warranty reputation, and policy compliance often outweigh glossy brochures.

By investing in local service capacity, tailoring its products to subsidy caps, and signalling long-term presence, Fox ESS is attempting to sidestep the pitfalls that have tripped up others.

The goal now is simple: to be seen as a brand that delivers on its promises.

Fox ESS is betting on strong local support and long warranties to win installer trust in Australia’s competitive storage market.

Making Back Contact accessible for every project

Once reserved for high-end projects, Back Contact solar technology is now ready for the mainstream.

AIKO’s latest Back Contact (BC) solar panels promise higher efficiency, higher durability, better aesthetics –and mass-market affordability.

By stripping away complexity and slashing material costs, AIKO has made the new solar architecture viable at scale.

Back Contact in plain language

BC’s appeal has always been straightforward: no front busbars mean no optical shading, more light absorbed, and more current generated. With stronger passivation on the rear, lower resistive losses, and better thermal behaviour, the result is a design with major efficiency potential.

But those same strengths come with weaknesses. Traditional BC manufacturing required precision alignment across multiple complex steps, expensive photolithography processes, and wafer quality standards that made mass production a pipe dream. With heavy reliance on volatile silver pricing, the technology could only survive in niche, highmargin projects.

While much of the industry has made incremental improvements to Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell (PERC) and Tunnel Oxide Passivated Contact (TOPCon) architectures, AIKO saw an opportunity to rewrite the rules entirely.

“AIKO isn’t here to copy what already exists,” says Thomas Bywater, AIKO Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand.

“Our role is to set the pace – delivering technology that doesn’t just redefine efficiency but makes the industry’s best architecture accessible and affordable at scale.”

Breakthroughs in manufacturing

AIKO’s patented self-masked two-step passivation process has revolutionised BC cell production. By independently optimising the p-type and n-type tunnelling oxide and poly-Si layers, AIKO achieves world-leading passivation quality and greater than 27 per

cent cell efficiency in mass production. The streamlined process reduces contamination risks, boosts yield and removes scalability barriers.

Perhaps more transformative is AIKO’s complete elimination of silver from the manufacturing process. While traditional panels have relied heavily on this scarce metal, AIKO has developed a proprietary

copper interconnection system that delivers superior performance at a fraction of the cost.

“Copper actually is a better conductor,” says Bywater.

“So you don’t need as many solar cells and glass to make the equivalent amount of power.”

Beyond technical advantages, the shift

AIKO’s new Back Contact solar panels are designed to deliver maximum efficiency with sleek, busbar-free aesthetics.

AIKO’s streamlined manufacturing process removes barriers to scale, making new panels viable for mainstream projects.

sustainable scaling without commodity risk.

Why now?

AIKO’s breakthrough arrives at a critical inflection point. Rising energy costs,

AIKO has expanded its impact across the entire energy ecosystem. Homeowners can generate more power from limited rooftop space, accelerating payback periods. For developers, EPCs, and commercial buyers,

this represents the first viable path to premium performance without premium penalties – delivering measurable advantages in project IRR, land utilisation, and long-

According to Bywater, putting “high tech into the hands of everyday Australians” helps homes and businesses generate more from the same space – and take more control

AIKO’s achievement extends far beyond a single product breakthrough. By proving back contact can be manufactured at scale and priced competitively with mainstream expectations across the entire industry.

At the same time, much of the solar industry has been slow to move. Many manufacturers have been focusing on datasheet wattage and lab-only claims of innovation. Panels got bigger, numbers on paper went up, but the underlying technology

“A lot of the manufacturers have been resting on their laurels… They’re not going to be able to keep doing that,” Bywater says.

The market has responded decisively. Industry analysts now project back contact architectures will dominate global solar production by 2030, with capacity forecasts reaching one terawatt. Manufacturers previously committed to TOPCon and heterojunction technologies are accelerating their own BC development programs.

All Energy Australia and the Road Ahead

AIKO will be showcasing its latest tech at All Energy Australia, including both black and white variants of its Infinite 3S and 3P panels, as well as a new 60-cell, 520-watt 2P module.

“We really encourage you to come have a look, come have a chat with our people,” Bywater says. “Record an interview for your solar business and show your expertise in doing your due diligence.”

He’s also hoping to see real discussions around stewardship and quality.

“We’ve got to really get behind recycling and stewardship. It’s going to be a painful transition… but if each panel has that same cost, no one’s disadvantaged,” he says.

By transforming back contact from laboratory curiosity to market reality, AIKO has elevated expectations across the solar industry. The company believes that innovation, scaled affordably and reliably, is now the proven path forward.

By eliminating silver and shifting to copper, AIKO is cutting costs while boosting sustainability.

High efficiency and durability meet affordability in AIKO’s latest panel range.

Stop flying blind with real-time insight

As Australia races toward decarbonisation, the nation’s energy sector faces a hidden risk: operational blind spots.

From distributed energy resources to tightening cybersecurity obligations, the sector’s complexity is growing.

Yet many operators still rely on legacy systems that fail to provide a complete picture of their assets and operations. The result is fragmented insights, slower decision-making and escalating risks that can cost millions.

For decades, utilities and energy providers relied on SCADA (supervisory control and data acquisition) systems, telemetry feeds and manual reporting designed for a different era.

Today, those systems are struggling to keep pace with the demands of electrification, AI (artificial intelligence)-led automation and modern compliance. The result is an industry in transition where field crews, engineers and executives are often forced to make high-stakes decisions with only fragments of the full picture.

This matters more than ever in 2025.

As infrastructure modernises, the ability to transform raw data into clear, actionable insights is fast becoming the foundation of operational excellence. Without it, efficiency falters, resilience erodes and compliance risks escalate.

When visibility is partial, operators face a series of cascading problems.

Alarm overloads pile up with no rootcause traceability. Faults escalate because systems are fragmented. Maintenance is triggered by time rather than condition. Long-term planning relies on stitchedtogether spreadsheets that fail to capture the bigger picture.

The outcome is slower reactions, higher costs and a greater risk of outages.

Four forces in particular are driving the urgency.

First is the rise of distributed energy resources (DERs), which require seamless integration to avoid creating fresh blind spots. Second is cybersecurity, where compliance with the Security of

Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act and Australian Energy Sector Cyber Security Framework (AESCSF) now demands real-time awareness and response. Third is decarbonisation, with environmental, social and governance (ESG) mandates requiring verified, near-real-time data for accurate emissions reporting. Finally, workforce constraints mean that as experienced operators exit, digital systems must carry more of the load.

The consequences of partial visibility are already clear.

A crew sent to repair a fault may discover it originated upstream, losing hours and risking safety. A minor alarm, unnoticed amid noise, can escalate into a major shutdown. Capital projects can be deferred or derailed because reports lacked the right context. These are not anomalies – they are the predictable outcomes of fragmented systems.

Solutions are emerging. Real-time asset visibility, enabled by digital twins and integrated SCADA, Internet-of-Things and edge devices, can provide a single source of truth.

Predictive maintenance, powered by AI analytics, allows failures to be forecast weeks in advance and addressed during low-demand periods. Cybersecurity by design, built into governance and aligned

with SOCI Act requirements, ensures 24/7 monitoring and compliance across both IT and operational systems.

Australian automation and operational technology specialist SAGE Group asserts that the pathway forward is clear: assess and align data flows, modernise SCADA and edge analytics, embed AI models at scale, and strengthen cybersecurity with continuous monitoring.

Collaboration – across operators, regulators and technology providers – will be essential to standardise protocols, upskill workforces and secure flexible funding models that match the pace of innovation.

In today’s energy market, visibility is no longer optional. Those seeking to close the gap will make better decisions, strengthen compliance, and lift output. SAGE Group emphasise that those who do not risk falling behind in a sector where resilience and agility define long-term success.

SAGE Group will showcase solutions at Stand BB127 during All Energy Australia, or visit www. gotosage.com to learn how turning noise into knowledge can deliver smarter, more resilient energy operations.

Image:

SAGE Group

Field crews and control rooms alike are grappling with legacy systems as the energy sector races to modernise.

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The quiet revolution in home energy

Australians are turning to home batteries in record numbers, with integrated all-in-one systems reshaping how households generate and use power. PowerPlus Energy’s Whispr is one of the leaders in this shift.

For PowerPlus, the country’s largest rack-mounted battery manufacturer, the launch of the Whispr represents a defining step. Australian engineered, designed and supported, this true all-in-one home battery delivers simplicity, reliability and energy independence – all with quiet confidence.

For PowerPlus, the new home battery is more than just technology; it is the culmination of years building trust in the toughest conditions and a reflection of the company’s belief that energy independence starts with the Whispr.

The Whispr battery combines inverter, storage and controls in one streamlined, household-ready unit.

The new all-in-one battery brings quiet, reliable power straight into the home.

The Kyneton story

When Barney and Carolyn, long-time residents of Kyneton in Victoria, looked to upgrade their solar system, they were already well-versed in the shortcomings of a fragile regional grid. Blackouts, brownouts and a five-day outage after a storm had forced them to rely on a noisy generator. They wanted stability and affordability.

“We’ve had panels for more than ten years,” Carolyn says.

“They worked well, but the impact on our bills wasn’t as strong as we hoped. With more outages happening, and new rebates for batteries, it felt like the right time to reinvest.”

The couple turned to Matt Wilson from Central Spark Victoria, their local installer, who recommended the Whispr.

“The fact it’s from an Australian company gave us confidence. We wanted something we could set and forget,” Barney says.

For Matt, the decision was clear.

“The Whispr sits in a sweet spot – 13 to 35 kilowatt hours of storage, slimline, modular and flexible. It’s perfect for a standard Australian home. And because PowerPlus stands behind its products with real local support, we know if anything happens, the homeowner will be looked after,” he says.

Heritage meets the home

Shane Pollard, Executive General Manager of PowerPlus Energy, says Whispr represents the company’s shift into the mainstream.

“Our background has been in off-grid, commercial and industrial projects. We’ve proven our products in harsh environments, and the challenge was to make something that looks and feels like a household appliance but still carries that durability,” he says.

That durability is born of experience. PowerPlus batteries already underpin hundreds of off-grid systems across Australia. The Whispr takes that engineering heritage and repackages it for homes – a true All-inone that combines solar, maximum power point tracking (MPPT), hybrid inverter, artificial intelligence, app monitoring and batteries in a streamlined unit.

Ease of installation was critical. Feedback from PowerPlus’ nationwide installer network – including Matt – shaped the Whispr from the beginning.

“It’s a two-way street,” says Shane.

“Our installers tell us what works in the field, and we listen. That’s how Whispr came to life – designed for the home, built for installers.”

Matt agrees.

“From an installer’s perspective, the modularity is a big win,” he says.

“One person can lift each battery module, stack it and lock it in place. Access to cabling is simple, weatherproofing is neat, and the monitoring app makes handover easy for homeowners.”

Smarter, quieter, easier to live with For Barney and Carolyn, quiet operation and simplicity mattered just as much as resiliency.

“Generators are loud and chew through petrol,” Barney says.

“The Whispr just runs. We’re not technical people – we need something that looks after itself.”

That ease is backed by intelligent software.

Every Whispr includes an AI-enabled app that lets households track usage, optimise consumption and, where permitted, participate in energy trading.

“The homeowner can bring up all the

information on their phone in a snapshot,”

“It gives Australians a chance to participate in a future grid, not just consume

It lives up to its name. With E-Capless Technology removing a common weak link in conventional inverters, Whispr runs with no fans and no moving parts, delivering quiet performance and reliable long-term operation with fewer points of failure.

“That’s why it’s called Whispr,” Shane says.

The Australian advantage

While battery manufacturing is a global industry, PowerPlus insists on a strong

“Australian engineered, Australian designed, Australian supported – that’s what defines us,” Shane says.

The company’s rack-mounted products are manufactured in Scoresby, Victoria, while the Whispr incorporates Australiandeveloped software and engineering smarts. Its patented battery management system, developed in Queensland, is now recognised internationally.

“This is what excites me most,” Shane says.

“Australia isn’t just following the world – we’re leading in areas like battery management systems and integrated design. That’s something we all should be proud of.”

The Federal Government’s battery rebate has supercharged demand across the industry, and PowerPlus has seen immediate impact.

“We’ve gone crazy – you can quote me on that,” Shane laughs.

Not only has demand spiked for Whispr, but also for PowerPlus’s rebate-eligible Eco4847P rack-mounted model.

Installers and energy professionals have been exploring the Whispr’s modular, streamlined design.

More regional households are embracing the shift to energy independence.

“Our traditional products have benefited enormously. The whole nation is embracing what has been a very popular rebate,” Shane says.

Matt has seen the shift first-hand.

“With the subsidy, batteries have gone from a nice-to-have to a must-have. Discounts of up to 30 per cent make the Whispr and other PowerPlus systems affordable, and the payback period can be under five years. For regional customers especially, that’s transformative,” he says.

Support as strategy

Behind the technology, PowerPlus has built its reputation on service.

“We’ve invested a lot in making sure we’ve got people who can answer the phone and give reasonable answers to whomever calls, be those installers or homeowners,” Shane says.

It’s a philosophy that comes from his time

in the automotive industry.

“A salesperson sells the first car, but aftersales sells the second,” he says.

“It’s good business, but it’s also essential in this industry because these are complex items and more often than not, relationships are long-term due to the products’ long-term warranty.

For installers like Matt, that commitment is invaluable.

“We’ve worked with PowerPlus for years. Their support is two-way. If they need a trusted installer to help a customer, we’ll get the call. That’s why I’m comfortable recommending the Whispr – I know the backup is there,” he says.

For homeowners like Barney and Carolyn, the benefits go beyond bills.

“We freeze a lot of produce from our orchard and veggie garden,” Carolyn says.

“When the power goes out for days, you lose it all. That’s heartbreaking. Knowing the freezer

will stay on gives us real peace of mind.”

“Almost everything we do runs on electricity,” Barney says.

“To have that continuity means we can just get on with life.”

Recycling, regulation and the road ahead

As demand grows, Shane is realistic about the hurdles.

“Two things worry me. Recycling is a big one – Australia needs a clear plan for millions of tonnes of lithium batteries at end of life. The other is software complexity. Too many platforms and rules could stop systems working together,” he says.

Even so, he is optimistic.

“Integrated systems are already mainstream. This is the next phase – a chance for Australians to take part in the grid, not just rely on it. They won’t be at the mercy of fluctuating power prices anymore. That’s energy security,’ Shane says.

Matt echoes the sentiment.

“In regional areas, one storm can take out power for days. With a battery like Whispr, families barely notice. They keep living their lives,” he says.

“How do you put a price on that kind of security?”

From Kyneton to communities nationwide, the Whispr is showing how Australian engineering and support can redefine home energy.

True all-in-one, designed for the home and built for installers, it is helping households secure their power, stabilise the grid and embrace independence.

For Barney and Carolyn, the decision feels both practical and profound.

“It just makes sense,” Carolyn says.

“It’s affordable, reliable and Australian. We’re excited to see the difference on our next bill.”

For PowerPlus Energy, the Whispr is not just a product – it is a promise of a quieter, more resilient energy future.

Scan here to see testimonials from homeowners:

Intelligent software helps homeowners track, optimise and trade their power.

Growatt unveils future-ready solar

Australia’s clean energy market is evolving fast – with new incentives, tougher compliance standards, and rising demand for both home and commercial storage.

At this year’s All Energy Australia conference, Growatt will showcase a portfolio designed to evolve with Australia’s changing needs: three advanced inverter platforms that combine localised engineering with future-proof performance.

From single-phase hybrid workhorses to battery-ready commercial systems, Growatt’s new releases demonstrate a clear focus – giving Australian households and businesses more power, more flexibility, and more options for energy independence.

Battery-ready power for projects

For small to medium-sized commercial and industrial sites, Growatt’s new MID 10-30KTL3-XH battery-ready inverter offers a simple pathway from solar-only to full hybrid capability.

Installed first as a high-efficiency gridtied system, it can later integrate battery storage without major rework – a compelling proposition for businesses wanting to lock in today’s solar benefits while keeping upgrade options open.

To meet diverse Australian regulations, the 10 kilowatt (kW) MID 10KTL3-XH features a 9999 volt-amp (VA) power rating for Queensland compliance, plus an inbuilt Australian standard solution for Victoria and South Australia.

With only a smart meter needed for dynamic export limit functions, installers avoid the extra cost and complexity of separate controllers.

Three maximum power point tracking (MPPT) units, each with dual-string inputs, allow six photovoltaic (PV) connections in total.

High-current input support (16 A per string) ensures compatibility with the latest large-format panels, while DC-coupled battery charging minimises energy losses.

Built-in arc fault circuit interrupter (AFCI) protection, Type II surge arrestors, and an IP66 enclosure ensure reliable operation even in harsh conditions.

When paired with Growatt’s APX-S2 battery – expandable from 5 kilowatt-hours (kWh) to 60kWh, with the option to mix new and old modules – the system scales easily for larger energy demands. Up to nine inverters can be paralleled for 270kW inverter output and 540 kWh storage, serving larger commercial sites such as shopping centres and industrial plants.

All-in-one residential storage

For households, Growatt’s SPH 3.6-6KTLHUB inverter with an advanced lithium-ion phosphate (ALP) battery has been purposebuilt to leverage the upcoming Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

Since July 2025, eligible buyers have been saving up to 30 per cent on system costs through federal support, with additional state-based incentives in New South Wales and Western Australia.

Certified for the scheme, the all-in-one package delivers both upfront savings and ongoing returns via Virtual Power Plant (VPP) participation.

The system has already proven itself in Australian conditions, with over six months of deployments and strong installer and homeowner feedback following an 18-month local co-development program.

Technical features include a 3.6-6 kW inverter, modular ALP batteries expandable from 5 kWh to 40 kWh, and an integrated smart meter.

The pre-wired design cuts installation time by half compared to typical setups. One-click diagnostics and built-in monitoring streamline commissioning and ongoing management.

With blackout protection, VPP readiness, and scalable storage, the system is positioned for today’s needs and tomorrow’s grid services.

For homeowners chasing lower bills and more energy independence, the timing is ideal – especially for those ready to act before rising demand stretches supply.

Hybrid systems for high-power homes

Growatt’s SPM10KTL-HU pushes the limits of single-phase residential hybrid performance.

Designed specifically for Australian grid rules, it delivers 9990 VA output with three MPPTs optimised for high-current modules. Two trackers accept 16 A each, while the third handles dual parallel strings at up to 32 A – giving designers exceptional flexibility. Where most single-phase hybrids max out at around five kW for charging or backup, the SPM10KTL-HU doubles that figure, offering 10 kW in both modes.

This means batteries recharge faster while still powering heavy household loads, enhancing both daily energy use and outage resilience. With two times DC/AC ratio, it can charge at 10 kW and export or run loads at another 10 kW simultaneously.

An integrated Automatic Transfer Switch

Image:

Growatt

Growatt has set up an Australian head office as a base for its expanding support and clean energy solutions.

ensures instant switchover during grid loss, and generator compatibility extends its off-grid appeal. AC or DC coupling allows retrofits as well as new builds, and up to six units can be paralleled for 60 kW total capacity – a rare option for large single-phase sites.

When matched with the ALP-E2 battery range, the inverter can fully exploit its high-power capability both on and off-grid. A 10-year warranty covers both inverter and battery, and compliance with Australian common smart inverter profile (CSIP-AUS) standards ensures easy VPP integration and grid support participation.

Flexibility meets compliance

Viewed together, these three systems highlight Growatt’s push to cover every major segment of Australia’s solar-storage market. Each is tuned for local distribution network service provider (DNSP) requirements, with built-in CSIP-AUS support and future-oriented features like VPP readiness.

Battery scalability is a recurring theme – from the modular ALP home

systems to the APX-S2’s commercial-scale flexibility – reflecting a market shift toward staged energy upgrades rather than one-time installs.

Compliance integration is another differentiator. By embedding grid-interaction and export-limit capabilities in the inverter firmware, Growatt reduces the need for extra controllers and cabling, simplifying installation and reducing costs.

For installers, that means less time on site and fewer points of potential failure; for endusers, it is a cleaner, more reliable system.

All Energy Australia

Growatt will attend the All Energy Australia conference to present its latest inverter and battery technologies for both residential and commercial applications.

The event will provide an opportunity for industry professionals, installers, and energy users to learn more about the MID 10-30KTL3-XH, SPH 3.6–6KTL-HUB, and SPM10KTL-HU systems, along with its compatible battery solutions.

Attendees will be able to speak directly with Growatt representatives to discuss

technical specifications, compliance features, and system integration options relevant to Australian conditions and regulations.

Australia’s clean energy growth is being driven by both performance demands and the need for regulatory compliance. Solutions that are flexible, scalable, and designed to integrate smoothly with evolving grid requirements will be crucial in the next phase of adoption.

Growatt’s portfolio combines localised engineering with modular storage options and advanced inverter capabilities, enabling customers to start with the capacity they need now and expand over time.

This approach supports both immediate savings and long-term energy resilience for homes and businesses.

Growatt will be exhibiting at Stand R135 at All Energy Australia 2025, October 28 to 30, at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Modular home storage driving decentralisation

As grid reliability declines and household energy costs surge, more Australians are turning to decentralised energy solutions.

Australia’s energy landscape is shifting fast. With electricity prices fluctuating, rooftop solar uptake rising, and blackouts becoming more frequent, households are seeking more control over their energy use.

For many, the answer lies in smart home storage – and BLUETTI’s EP760 is leading that charge. This scalable, all-in-one energy storage system is designed to put power back into the hands of consumers, supporting everything from self-consumption and blackout protection to full off grid living.

The EP760 is an all-in-one energy storage ecosystem purpose-built for Australia’s unique solar profile and policy environment. Fully approved by the Clean Energy Council (CEC) and eligible under the Cheaper Home Batteries Program, it delivers not only technical performance but also economic viability – offering up to 29.76 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of scalable storage across its stackable B500 battery modules (4.96kWh).

“Making clean energy accessible to everyone has been our mission since day one,” says Tiger Han, BLUETTI spokesperson.

“With our EP760 home battery, you can store solar power for self-consumption, lower your bills, and maintain power during outages. It’s designed to give households true energy independence with confidence and ease”.

Decentralisation in action

The EP760 reflects a broader shift toward distributed energy resources (DERs). BLUETTI positions its system as not a just a storage unit, but a catalyst for the decentralised energy model. Households can operate on-grid, off-grid, or within Virtual Power Plant (VPP) networks, offering enormous flexibility.

The system features a built-in hybrid PV inverter, which means it can either be retrofitted to an existing rooftop PV system (AC coupling) or directly connected to solar panels in a new installation (DC coupling). And its hybrid inverter delivers up to 7.6 kilowatts (kW) of rated output power, backed by three independent maximum power point tracking (MPPT) inputs that can accommodate up to 15.2 kilowatt-peak (kWp) of solar array input.

Where BLUETTI separates itself

from traditional home batteries is in its design approach – particularly for the Australian landscape.

“Our solution features an all-in-one modular design, enabling users to flexibly stack battery modules to meet their specific energy needs,” Han says.

“Every system uses long-lasting LiFePO₄ cells, backed by an advanced battery management system and multiple safety certifications”.

The EP760 is engineered for reliability during peak demand and grid disruptions. Its IP65 rating makes it suitable for outdoor installation, while noise levels under 50 decibels (dB) ensure the system runs unobtrusively.

“Even households without solar panels can benefit by using a ‘Peak-Shaving’ strategy – storing low-cost electricity during off-peak hours for use during peak tariff periods,” Han says.

Subsidy synergy

Policy has played a critical role in driving uptake. As a CEC-approved, VPP-ready system, the EP760 qualifies under Australia’s

Modular storage brings flexibility, resilience and savings to homes.

Cheaper Home Batteries Program.

This offers a 30 per cent discount on battery systems between 5 and 100 kWh, significantly reducing the barrier to entry for households eager to decouple from the grid.

“Policy support is essential. Subsidies not only make systems more affordable but also give customers confidence to invest in renewable technologies,” Han says.

“This drives faster adoption across the country”.

The modular nature of the EP760 also future-proofs the investment. Homeowners can start with two B500 units (9.9 kWh) and scale up to six (29.76 kWh) as their needs change or energy tariffs evolve. The system is also certified under AS/ NZS 4777 and UL 9540A, among other global standards, making it compliant for widespread deployment.

Australia’s residential energy landscape is far from homogenous. BLUETTI reports strong interest from suburban solar adopters, as well as rural and off-grid communities. For these households, the company’s local warehousing, installer network, and 10-year warranty provide

additional peace of mind.

“Essentially, it’s anyone who wants to cut energy costs, improve reliability, and reduce reliance on the grid,” Han says.

Convenience, fast installation, and mobile app control also rank high on the reasons customers choose BLUETTI over competitors.

This versatility is particularly critical in a country as vast and climatically diverse as Australia. During extended blackouts, the EP760 can be paired with a generator to provide reliable overnight backup. In remote regions, the system enables true off-grid living, connecting directly to rooftop solar arrays and functioning without any grid input.

Facing the future

With more than 3.5 million users worldwide and over 700 patents across its research and development portfolio, BLUETTI has carved a niche as one of the most inventive players in the global energy storage space. The company’s Australian operations are expanding via local partnerships, improved logistics, and participation in major industry expos.

SES – Comprehensive Energy Services

“Innovation is core to our mission,” Han says.

“We’re launching new products like the EP2000 three-phase system and the Apex off-grid solution, while increasing investment in AI-driven energy management”.

At the heart of BLUETTI’s roadmap is a simple but powerful vision: to turn every home into a mini power station – one that’s clean, resilient, and part of a broader, people-powered energy network.

The value proposition of the EP760 goes far beyond backup power. In a landscape where the grid is no longer the sole provider, systems like BLUETTI’s are redefining what it means to be energy secure.

They enable households not just to ride out power outages, but to participate actively in energy markets, reduce carbon emissions, and exert greater control over their energy destiny.

From its LiFePO₄ foundation to VPP integration, the EP760 is a blueprint for where residential energy is heading: smart, modular, decentralised – and designed for Australian realities.

Delivering expert electrical solutions for renewable infrastructure –from Solar PV and BESS to Wind, Hydrogen, VPPs, and next-gen energy systems.

Beijing to Outback: HyperStrong’s strategy for the storage market

HyperStrong is redefining Australia’s energy storage future by deploying advanced energy storage solutions tuned to various utility, commercial and industrial needs.

Australia’s energy storage boom is accelerating. According to the Clean Energy Council, six large-scale battery energy storage system (BESS) projects in the first quarter 2025 secured $2.4 billion in funding, adding 1.5 gigawatts (GW) capacity – Australia’s second-best quarter on record.

With federal policy now targeting 82 per cent renewables by 2030, dispatchable storage has moved from concept to critical infrastructure.

Against this backdrop, HyperStrong’s Asia-Pacific (APAC) headquarters in Sydney positions the company at the nexus of market expansion and tailored innovation.

Kevin Changbin Qiu, Senior Vice President of HyperStrong International, explains how the company intends to lead not just with energy storage systems, but with integrated storage solutions designed for Australia’s diverse landscape.

He says there is a clear shift beyond raw capacity.

“We built HyperStrong to deliver more than power,” Qiu says.

“In Australia, our focus is integrating storage with solar, microgrids, data centres, oil fields and mining areas under the ‘Energy Storage + X’ framework to serve various applications in different sites.”

Australia’s unique energy needs

Large-scale solar developments, mining and oilfield operations in remote regions, booming data centres, and grid instability across remote areas demand more than lithium-ion batteries alone.

Long-duration storage, virtual power plants (VPPs), and hybrid microgrids are needed to balance seasonal generation, support dispatchable demand and reduce reliance on ageing coal infrastructure.

Calls for longer duration batteries and pumped hydro projects like Snowy 2.0 hint at the scale required to keep the lights on in 2050.

Qiu says HyperStrong’s response is multipronged and client centric.

“We don’t just sell energy storage systems; we offer integrated solutions coupled with an artificial intelligence-empowered platform

for optimised performance and value,” he says.

“‘Storage + X’ means coupling BESS with solar and many other applications, providing load-shifting, grid auxiliary services, backup and more revenue sources in one package.”

He highlights partnerships forged since the Sydney office launch in 2024:

“We signed collaborations with Tesseract ESS and other partners in the APAC region to target commercial and industrial, and grid-scale projects in Australia. We also forged agreements with partners in Singapore and the Philippines to deploy utility-scale [energy storage system] ESS projects and electric vehicle EV [electric vehicle] charging plus storage projects in other parts of the market,” Qiu says.

Translating lessons from China and Europe

HyperStrong’s footprint spans over 40 gigawatt-hours (GWh) deployed across more than 300 global projects, including major installations in Europe and Asia.

Some projects have been designed to act as

Lessons from Europe and China guide HyperStrong’s deployment of storage alongside solar, data centres and Renewable Energy Zones.

virtual transmission assets – storing surplus renewable energy to relieve grid congestion.

“In Germany,” Qiu says, “storage is increasingly being integrated directly into grid operations – supporting transmission stability, reducing congestion and deferring CAPEX [capital expenditure]. We believe that same approach will apply in Australia’s Renewable Energy Zones [REZs], where colocated storage can maximise utilisation of existing infrastructure.”

Indeed, Australia has designated multiple REZs across New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland to coordinate generation, storage and transmission infrastructure rollout.

“Our experience in high-density REZ environments in China and Europe teaches us how to co-optimise location, timing and control strategies,” Qiu says.

“In Australia, that means deploying ‘storage + solar’ or combining mining microgrids with firming layers for remote operations.”

Earlier this year, HyperStrong unveiled its “Energy Storage + X” models for multiple scenarios – grid-scale, commercial and industrial (C&I), data centre and remote industrial applications.

“Functions we have developed for Chinese microgrids – such as integrated solar-battery hybrid systems using AI-optimised dispatch –translate well to remote Australian mines or First Nations microgrid initiatives,” Qiu says.

Tailoring tech to mining

In remote mining regions of Australia, unstable local grids, unreliable diesel supply

HyperStrong intends to deploy containerised or C&I storage units, for example, ESS products tailored for two to eight hour storage durations with coupling for solar plus storage application.

“Those products allow flexibility in deployment – scalable modules that can support a single mine camp or cluster multiple sites under one VPP,” Qiu says.

“They integrate with smart EMS [energy management systems] and AI technologies for predictive dispatch and peak shaving.”

“In remote and microgrid systems,

controls so that our systems can island safely and maintain power quality without grid support.”

He notes that storage remains vital to the national transition.

“We’re also working on utility-scale systems tied into REZ playbooks. Our German approach to virtual transmission is instructive: strategic placement of batteries to relieve grid congestion and support throughout,” he says.

Policy tailwinds

HyperStrong’s Sydney headquarters anchors its Asia-Pacific push.

Containerised storage units offer scalable, flexible options for remote mining operations and hybrid microgrids.

The Capacity Investment Scheme (CIS) has been expanded by 25 per cent – adding underwriting for an additional eight GW of generation and storage capacity, with dispatchable projects eligible for revenue-sharing contracts. Reports indicate consistent growth in storage project finance and construction pipelines throughout this year.

“This policy certainty matters,” Qiu says.

“Investors and offtakers want predictable revenue frameworks. Our ability to propose AI-optimised storage systems that can deliver frequency control, arbitrage, and piling firm capacity positions us well for CISsupported tenders.”

Qiu cites Victoria’s REZ targets: up to 6.3 GW of storage by 2035, co-located with REZ generation hubs. He says HyperStrong is advancing designs for mid-size storage nodes that can serve multiple contracts seamlessly.

The result, he suggests, is dual value: Australia gains resilience and firming capability; HyperStrong embeds deeply into the Asia-Pacific region’s evolving energy ecosystem.

Challenges and local integration

That opportunity comes with hurdles.

Planning pathways for BESS remain inconsistent across regions, and community concerns persist – particularly around safety and land-use issues in local planning zones.

“We design systems to meet AS/NZS safety standards, and our TüV-certified ESS, certified in Europe, North America and Australia to AS/NZS standards, demonstrates our commitment to safe operations,” Qiu says.

“We also work closely with local stakeholders to ensure community trust and transparency. The company is also planning a large-scale burn test as part of its safety validation program.”

HyperStrong’s Sydney-based team is working through local certification and engagement.

Its five MWh ESS product received TÜV Rheinland certification to AS/ NZS standards in 2024, now underpins deployments in Australia and the AsiaPacific region.

Looking beyond 2025

Qiu projects storage demand across the region will accelerate through to at least 2030.

“With 40 GWh deployed globally, we’ve built unmatchable know-how. APAC’s markets – from Indonesian industrial zones to Australian remote campuses – will lean heavily on hybrid systems,” he says.

“‘Storage + X’ gives us flexibility to tailor across use-cases – ancillary services, diesel substitution, desalination support.”

He forecasts lessons from Europe and China – especially grid-stabilisation schemes, revenue stacking, and remote microgrid ops –will prove essential across APAC markets.

Australia’s energy evolution demands storage systems that do more than hold charge. HyperStrong, led locally from Sydney and drawing on global experience, is positioning itself to deliver solutions aligned with remote, hybrid and grid-support needs.

With technical roots in grid-form services, strategic policy alignment and growing local collaborations, the company is forging a new path to make its mark in a market hungry for capacity.

policy and rising investment are accelerating Australia’s shift toward largescale dispatchable storage.

Fronius offers upgradeable vision

Modular and upgradeable systems have become an excellent answer to the question of ‘what’s next in household energy?’

When Fronius launched its GEN24 inverter in Australia three years ago, the market was not yet buzzing with battery rebates or urgent conversations about grid independence. The company had to build for a different timeline.

“In 2020, we saw an opening in the market – people who wanted to take control of their home energy,” says Joel Atkins, Head of Sales at Fronius Australia and New Zealand.

“The battery costs were still a hurdle, but we realised we could give customers the option to take that step later without starting again.”

The GEN24 was designed to do just that.

As a standard photovoltaic (PV) inverter it manages solar generation for a home, but with a software upgrade it transforms into a hybrid system ready to connect to battery storage – no rewiring, no hardware replacement, no waste.

That foresight is paying off now.

With the Federal Government’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program reducing the cost of home storage systems by around 30 per cent, early adopters of Fronius equipment are already poised to take advantage.

“We’ve seen a fourfold increase in GEN24 upgrades since the rebate was announced,” Atkins says.

“The customers already have the inverter, the data, the hardware – it’s just a matter of software and a battery install.”

There are over 65,000 GEN24 units installed across Australia and New Zealand. Many of these were sold as standalone PV systems with the promise of future batteryreadiness – a promise now proving to be worth its weight in lithium.

Longevity as strategy

For Fronius, the upgrade path is part of a deep sustainability ethos rooted in the company’s 80-year history.

“Fronius started in 1945 by developing battery chargers to stop car batteries from going to waste,” Atkins says.

“That same philosophy – of extending

product life, not discarding it – runs through everything we do, including the GEN24.”

That focus on longevity is as technical as it is ethical.

The GEN24 uses active cooling – a rare choice in the industry, where passively cooled inverters are more common due to lower manufacturing costs.

“We use a mechanical fan and a specially designed heat sink to keep the inverter cool,” Atkins says.

“That means we can maintain peak power performance up to 45 degrees ambient temperature. There’s less stress on the components, and you don’t lose efficiency during heatwaves.”

This choice costs more upfront, but

according to Atkins, it dramatically extends the life of the unit and preserves its performance in harsh Australian conditions.

“Longevity is part of sustainability,” he says.

“A five-year product that needs replacing isn’t a green solution.”

The installer’s perspective

For Matt Williams, General Manager at GI Energy with over a decade’s experience in solar, reliability is crucial.

“It’s imperative,” Williams says.

“We’ve seen so many manufacturers come and go. If a product fails, we need to know it’s going to be supported, and that it won’t come back to bite us.”

General Manager at GI Energy.

Joel Atkins, Head of Sales at Fronius Australia.

Matthew Williams,

Williams says the GEN24’s dependability makes it a smart recommendation – not just for his customers, but for his own business risk. The fact that it can be upgraded with minimal disruption is a major bonus.

“It’s a much nicer conversation when you’re not telling a customer they need to pull out a perfectly good inverter,” he says.

“With the GEN24, we can add a battery seamlessly. There’s no waste, no confusion –it’s just a clean upgrade.”

With the new rebate sparking a surge in customer interest, Williams says his team has been flat out with inquiries.

“I’ve never seen anything like it,” he says.

“The number of calls is off the charts. We knew this would be popular, but it’s still blown us away.”

That demand is now moving from the inbox to the installation queue.

For customers who already have a GEN24, the process is relatively simple: check their usage and generation data, recommend a battery size, and activate the hybrid functionality through a software key.

“We try to keep it really straightforward,”

says Williams.

“We’ve done enough of these now that it’s become second nature.”

Timing is everything

One of the challenges now, both Williams and Atkins says, is managing stock and delivery logistics as the rebate drives uptake faster than expected.

But the upgradeable pathway has given both installers and homeowners a head start.

Many early GEN24 adopters have already accumulated solar usage data through their Fronius monitoring platform, allowing for smarter battery sizing.

“Without data, you’re guessing,” says Atkins.

“With data, we can model exactly what battery size is right for the customer and deliver a solution that genuinely supports energy independence.”

That data visibility is part of a broader strategy Fronius calls its “24 Hours of Sun” vision. The strategy seeks to enable energy self-sufficiency not only during sunlight hours, but around the clock through smart

generation, storage, and consumption.

“Our inverters manage production, our new battery handles storage, and our EV chargers optimise usage,” says Atkins.

“It’s a full loop, and the GEN24 is the heart.”

Reserva battery: The next phase

That loop will tighten further this year when Fronius launches its own home battery –Reserva. It is designed to work natively with the GEN24, giving Fronius full control over the inverter-battery ecosystem.

“Previously we partnered with BYD, which has been a great relationship,” says Atkins.

“But now with Reserva, we’ve developed the battery management system in-house. It improves commissioning, data analysis, and lets us push over-the-air updates in future.”

Williams says that integration is important – not just technically, but in terms of accountability.

“One manufacturer, one point of call,” he says.

“That’s a big deal when something goes wrong. You don’t want finger-pointing between brands – you want a fix.”

Advice for customers

With the subsidy only applying to the first battery installation, Williams says his team is encouraging customers to think years ahead.

“We’re telling people: install the biggest battery that your budget and solar generation can support,” he says.

“You’ll only get the rebate once. And with more EVs, more electric homes, and the rise of virtual power plants, you’re going to want that capacity.”

The Reserva battery is expandable, but sizing correctly up front makes the most of the subsidy.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all,” says Williams.

“But there’s definitely a right-size-for-you. And with a GEN24 already on the wall, you’ve got a huge head start.”

Not just a trend

Atkins agrees. While the current rebate has brought battery storage into focus, the broader shift toward energy autonomy is a long-term market transformation.

“This isn’t just a spike in demand – it’s a shift in mindset,” he says.

“People want control. They want resilience. And they want products that won’t end up in landfill.”

With GEN24 customers cashing in on a decision made years ago, the case for planning ahead has never been stronger.

The GEN24 Inverter is designed with future hybrid upgrade potential.

Powerful partnership to charge local market

A landmark distribution agreement between Raystech and LONGi is set to shake up how solar technology reaches Australian rooftops.

In late 2024, Raystech and LONGi announced an exclusive partnership: from 2025, Raystech has become the sole distributor of LONGi modules in Australia’s distributed market.

For Raystech, which has grown rapidly since its founding in 2019, the agreement is a major step toward becoming not just a distributor, but a key enabler of technology access across the national solar landscape.

For LONGi, one of the world’s largest solar technology companies, it signals a shift in how it wants to serve the Australian market – still with boots on the ground, but through a sharper distribution lens.

“Australia has always been an important market for us,” says Yang Hui, Marketing Manager of LONGi Solar Australia.

“But it’s fragmented. This partnership is about refining our delivery, simplifying the channel, and making sure the right customer gets the right product with the right support.”

Why now?

Exclusive distribution agreements are rare in Australia’s solar sector. But according to Raystech Marketing Manager Sara Cheng, the timing made sense for both commercial and structural reasons.

“This is not just about selling more panels – it’s about setting up a system that can scale more intelligently,” Cheng says.

“Installers want simplicity, certainty, and speed. We’ve built our business around delivering those, and now with LONGi exclusively behind us, we can go even further.”

LONGi’s reasoning reflects a maturing view of what markets like Australia require, and how to play to strengths.

“You reach a point where more channels don’t mean more coverage – they mean more duplication,” Hui says.

“This gives us reach, consistency, and deeper alignment with a partner that knows how to operate efficiently at the local level.”

The logistical advantage

Central to Raystech’s pitch is its national warehousing and distribution footprint –one the company claims is unmatched by other Australian PV distributors.

Warehouses in every capital city, supported by regional nodes, allow for faster delivery and lower freight costs. That translates to reduced lead times and less project risk for installers.

“In many cases, we can deliver same-day or next-day, even to more remote sites,” says Cheng.

“It’s not just about stocking inventory – it’s about locating that inventory strategically.”

This logistical capability was one of the key factors in securing LONGi’s confidence.

“They’ve proven they can scale quickly without losing service quality,” Hui added.

“That’s critical when we’re introducing new technologies into the market.”

Installers can expect shorter lead times and stronger technical support under a new distribution model.

Technology rollout

One of the first outcomes of the partnership will be the exclusive Australian launch of LONGi’s new Hybrid Passivated Back Contact (HPBC) 2.0 modules in early 2025. This includes its Hi-MO X10, with three powerful features: anti-shading, anti-heat and anti-dust.

The high-efficiency, HPBC series is designed for superior performance in residential and light commercial applications, with improved temperature coefficients and low-light behaviour. The Hi-MO X10 is characterised by its cell level bypass diode like design, giving the panels anti-shading functionality.

“It’s a product that rewards precision in installation and design,” says Hui.

“That’s why distribution matters – it’s not just getting it into hands, it’s getting it into the right hands, with the right training and support.”

Raystech plans to roll out accompanying installer education initiatives around the HPBC 2.0 launch, including tech briefings, continuing professional development webinars, and live demo events.

“We’re not just shifting boxes – we’re investing in the installer,” says Cheng.

“A smarter product deserves a smarter rollout.”

So far, the market response has been positive.

Some installers may have concerns about access – particularly those with relationships through other distributors – but Raystech and LONGi maintain that the transition will be managed carefully, with no disruption to aftersales service or warranty support.

LONGi’s local team in Sydney will continue handling product claims, technical queries and project support.

“Our support model stays the same – it’s just the channel that changes,” Hui says.

“We’re not stepping back from the Australian market; we’re stepping in more precisely.”

Cheng adds that Raystech’s existing relationships with installers across every state puts it in a strong position to absorb the change.

“We already have accounts in most metro and regional centres. The aim is to make this transition smooth, not sudden.”

The broader context

The exclusivity move also reflects broader shifts in the economics of solar distribution.

With margin pressure rising and project risk increasing, manufacturers and distributors are under pressure to eliminate friction and inefficiency.

“It’s about building in resilience,” says Hui. “Whether it’s freight costs, warehousing, or exchange rates, we’re always looking for ways to remove uncertainty from the value chain. Having a single, capable distributor helps us do that.”

At the same time, customer expectations are rising. Installers want shorter lead times, better technical advice, and streamlined claims. End-users want consistent performance and reliability. For Cheng, this creates a new role for distributors: less middleman, more integrator.

“Distribution used to mean shifting stock. Now it means managing risk, managing complexity, and managing relationships,” she says.

Raystech’s rapid rise has turned heads, even before the LONGi deal. In just five years, the company has gone from a newcomer to a recognised brand, twice named Australia’s Best Distributor by EUPD Research.

Many have wondered what is driving that momentum.

“Responsiveness, for one,” says Cheng. “We’re fast. We don’t over-complicate things. And we treat installers as partners, not customers.”

The company has also invested heavily in internal systems – digital ordering, logistics integration, and customer support platforms designed to reduce friction.

It’s this balance of local agility and operational maturity that helped seal the LONGi agreement, and that both companies say will underpin its success.

Where to from here

Both Raystech and LONGi stress that the partnership is not static. While it begins

with distribution, future steps may include co-marketing campaigns, joint technical development, and broader collaboration on installer training and digital platforms.

“There’s a lot of potential to align more deeply – whether it’s around product planning or market strategy,” Hui says.

“This is the start of something, not the finish.”

While the partnership is exclusive for now, neither party rules out further innovation in how solar reaches customers in Australia.

“The market is growing fast, but it’s also getting more complex,” says Cheng.

“We believe this model gives us the clarity, control and flexibility to meet that complexity head-on.”

The Raystech–LONGi partnership may not be the first exclusive agreement in Australia’s solar sector – but it is arguably the most ambitious. It is a bet on consolidation, clarity, and capability at a time when the industry is under pressure to deliver faster, cleaner, and more costeffective energy.

For installers, it offers a streamlined pathway to one of the world’s most trusted module brands. For LONGi, it’s a way to stay deeply connected to the Australian market without diluting focus. For Raystech, it’s a defining moment – moving from challenger to cornerstone in a national supply chain.

“We’re not just distributing solar,” says Cheng.

“We’re helping shape how solar gets done in this country.”

That ambition will be on full display at All Energy Australia 2025, booths JJ113 and PP123, where the companies will showcase the next phase in how solar is sold, supported and delivered across Australia.

A new agreement makes Raystech the sole Australian distributor of LONGi solar modules from 2025.

Flow Power is rewriting the rules

What began as a consultancy navigating deregulation has grown into a market-shaping force in clean energy. Flow Power’s founder and CEO, Matthew van der Linden, is now aiming to rewrite the rules of retail electricity.

Fifteen years after launching Flow Power, Matthew van der Linden is still tackling the same challenge that inspired him at the start: a sector weighed down by complexity, inefficiency and poor transparency.

Over that time, the scale of his ambition has changed. From humble beginnings in energy management, Flow Power is now helping reshape how Australian businesses – and increasingly households – interact with energy, making consumption smarter, cheaper and more renewable.

Retail designed for renewables

“We started Flow Power as an energy management business in a newly deregulated market,” van der Linden says.

“Over time, we evolved from helping customers manage their load on the wholesale market to becoming a fully licensed retailer – and ultimately, a renewable energy generator too.”

Today, Flow Power supplies hundreds of commercial and industrial (C&I) customers

with access to wholesale energy, backed by a portfolio of owned and affiliated wind, solar and battery storage projects. However, its real innovation lies in how it delivers energy: with dynamic pricing, smart tech, and a deep commitment to education.

“Our vision is to build a retailer designed specifically for a 100 per cent renewable energy market,” van der Linden says.

“That means we’ve had to do many things differently – building our own hardware, writing our own software, designing our own products. Everything we do is focused on helping customers use energy more efficiently.”

Challenging fixed mindsets

Central to Flow Power’s model is a move away from the traditional fixed-rate contract. Instead, the company offers pricing models that reward customers for using energy when it is cheaper and more renewable.

“We still offer a competitive base electricity rate which is locked in at the time of contracting,” says van der Linden.

“But we apply a price efficiency adjustment. If a business uses more energy when it’s cheap and less when it’s expensive, they’re rewarded. If not, they may pay a little more.”

This, he says, is how the market was always meant to work.

“Australia’s electricity market is actually well designed for price signals. But for years, retailers have hidden those signals from customers. There’s been no incentive for behaviour change,” van der Linden says.

“Because a more efficient market isn’t necessarily profitable – especially for vertically integrated retailers who own generation and retail. High prices are good for them.”

Demystifying the market

Van der Linden believes transparency is the missing link.

“For us, transparency means giving customers the tools and data to make smart energy decisions. That’s why we provide live data to all our customers, including

Flow Power is challenging conventional energy retail with smart technology, dynamic pricing, and a deep focus on customer engagement.

residential users. It’s not an add-on – it’s standard,” he says.

Flow Power’s kWatch controller and Customer Portal deliver real-time insights, helping users understand how their actions affect their bottom line and the broader energy market.

“Most people don’t realise just how dynamic electricity is. It’s traded every five minutes. The moment you flick on a kettle, something else in the network is responding,” he says.

“We want our customers to see that – and act on it.”

Awareness to automation

Still, van der Linden knows that awareness is not enough.

“Behaviour change is powerful, but people can’t manually respond to market signals all the time. That’s where automation comes in,” he says.

Flow Power installs technology that can automate loads – from household pool pumps to large-scale industrial processes – based on price signals or system needs.

“For larger customers, we also run demand response programs, remotely starting or curbing generation as needed,” he says.

“But even small actions can add up. Just shifting when you run your dishwasher or charge your EV (electric vehicle) can make a meaningful difference.”

Taking the model home

In recent years, Flow Power has begun rolling out its model to the residential market – no small feat given the complexity of wholesale pricing. Van der Linden insists it is not just for “the enthusiasts and early adopters.”

“Our residential product takes the same principles – rewarding price efficiency – and delivers them through a dynamic price contract. We give customers clear signals, like which day is cheapest to charge your EV or run appliances,” he says.

When it comes to batteries, the rewards are tangible.

“We’ve structured our pricing to reflect market value on both imports and exports – meaning if you export power at the right time, you’re significantly rewarded. In many cases, it’s better than what the wholesale market would pay.”

Educating a market

Unsurprisingly, education has become a core part of Flow Power’s brand.

“There are still a lot of misconceptions

out there – especially about feed-in tariffs or how the market actually works,” van der Linden says.

“But once people realise what’s possible – like charging your car for free, or saving $50 a month just by shifting usage – it clicks. People already go out of their way to save a dollar at the supermarket. This is far more impactful.”

The company’s marketing and customer service teams play an active role in guiding customers through the transition.

“The energy market can be overwhelming. But it’s also fascinating, and people are paying attention like never before,” he says.

Big clients, bigger ambitions

Flow Power’s client list includes some of Australia’s most recognisable organisations – from Westpac and RM Williams to the Sydney Opera House. These partnerships often involve long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), custom advisory support, and a shared commitment to decarbonisation.

“What these clients are asking for today is very different to five or ten years ago,” says van der Linden.

“They want partners, not just billers. They want help transitioning to 100 per cent renewables, and they want to go deep – not just tick a box.”

That same level of partnership, van der Linden says, is becoming more common further down the market.

“Whether it’s a mid-size manufacturer or a major corporate, businesses are realising

they can’t just set and forget. They need to engage,” he says.

Leading by example

Ultimately, van der Linden sees Flow Power not just as a retailer, but as a catalyst for industry-wide change.

“Our goal isn’t just to do things differently. It’s to be so successful that other retailers have no choice but to follow,” he says.

“If we can show that this model works – and scales – that’s what will drive systemwide change.”

That ambition is backed by real investment. Flow Power is currently finalising a $150 million, 100 megawatt battery project, with more in the pipeline.

“It sounds like a big number, but in the context of what’s needed, it’s just the beginning,” he says.

To truly reshape the market, van der Linden says, Flow Power needs to go mainstream.

“If we stay niche, we won’t move the needle. But if we grow – and we are growing – then we can help drive the whole market toward a smarter, cheaper, 100 per cent renewable future.”

Flow Power’s approach challenges everything traditional energy retailing stands for. Instead of passive consumption, it promotes engagement. Instead of fixed pricing, it rewards flexibility. Instead of hiding behind complexity, it leads with transparency. Companies like Flow Power are proving that the renewable shift will not just come from supply – it will come from smarter demand.

Images: Flow Power

A bold new retail model is reshaping how Australians use, pay for and benefit from renewable energy.

Italy sends its best to southern summit

Italy is no stranger to ambitious design. From cars to couture, the country has long fused tradition with innovation. That same mindset is driving its renewable energy sector.

When delegates arrive at All Energy Australia in Melbourne on October 29, they will find a growing Italian Pavilion showcasing some of the country’s leading renewable energy companies.

This will be the second time the Italian Trade Agency (ITA) has coordinated a national stand at Australia’s largest clean-energy exhibition, and momentum is clearly building.

Last year’s debut pavilion hosted eight exhibitors. This year, twelve Italian companies will make the trip, backed by Italy’s influential technology industry federation, ANIE, and inaugurated by senior diplomatic and trade officials.

For Simona Bernardini, Director of ITA Sydney and Italian Trade Commissioner for Australia and New Zealand, the expansion signals both Italy’s industrial strength and Australia’s appetite for global collaboration.

“Italy has a mature industrial base and a strong culture of manufacturing in renewables,” Bernardini says.

“By bringing our companies to Melbourne, we want to build lasting relationships with Australian developers, investors and utilities.”

A European hub in transition

The timing of Italy’s export push is no accident. Like much of Europe, the country is accelerating its clean-energy transition under binding EU climate targets. Its national energy and climate plan sets out a 2030 horizon where solar and wind capacity reaches more than 107 gigawatts (GW) –nearly triple the installed base of 2023.

As of the end of 2024, Italy already hosted 76.6 GW of renewable power, up almost 30 per cent in a single year. Photovoltaics make up nearly half that total, followed by hydro and wind. Regions such as Lazio, Lombardy, Campania, and Sicily are leading new deployments.

Underlying this growth is the National

Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), which allocates more than AU$175 billion to green transition and sustainable mobility.

Specific funding streams back agrisolar parks, agrivoltaic systems, energy communities, biomethane and offshore wind, alongside over AU$1.7 billion to build domestic supply chains in photovoltaics, wind and batteries.

Critically, Italy has moved to streamline approvals.

New legislation that came into force in December 2024 reduced a patchwork of permits to just three categories: free activity, simplified procedure and single authorisation. That reform, coupled

with regional “acceleration zones” and mapping of suitable areas, is designed to remove bottlenecks that have long frustrated developers.

Industry at scale

Italy’s renewable economy is about both deployment and production. Around 400 companies manufacture components for renewable plants, generating over AU$41 billion in turnover and employing nearly 60,000 people. Patent data shows Italian innovation is concentrated in solar and wind, with more than 1200 European filings.

That depth will be on display at All Energy Australia. The Italian co-exhibitors

Delegates in 2025 will explore an expanded Italian Pavilion at All Energy Australia (pictured: 2024 edition).

will cover technologies ranging from photovoltaic modules and inverters to hydrogen systems, energy storage and smart-grid solutions. Several already have footprints in Australia through distributors or partnerships, while others are scouting opportunities for entry.

The Trade Commissioner emphasises that the pavilion is not a one-off showcase but part of a longer-term strategy.

“We see Australia as a natural partner,” she says.

“The resource base is world-class, the policy momentum is strong, and there is a need for reliable supply chains. Italian firms can contribute with proven technology and experience.”

Bridging markets

To reinforce the exhibition presence, ITA is also coordinating a program of collateral events. Delegates will gather in Sydney on 27 October for a seminar on the Australian energy sector, with local companies invited to meet their Italian counterparts. The following day, the group travels to

briefing with the Victorian Government. The official pavilion opening, with Italy’s Consul General in Melbourne Chiara Mauri and ITA’s Sydney Director Simona Bernardini, will take place on 29 October.

These events, says Bernardini, are about building bridges at multiple levels – government, industry associations and business-to-business.

“Having ANIE with us again is important. It signals that this is a coordinated effort from Italy’s industrial federation, not just isolated firms. That kind of institutional support makes a difference when forging international ties,” she says.

Innovation themes

Several themes run through Italy’s renewable energy story that resonate strongly with the Australian market.

One is agrivoltaics. Italy is pioneering regulatory and financial frameworks that allow farmland to generate both crops and electricity, with requirements for rotating panels and crop monitoring to ensure agricultural productivity.

Dedicated recovery and resilience funds support these systems, and a new ministerial decree opens tenders for innovative projects above one kilowatt (kW).

Another is hydrogen. Since 2020, Italy has pursued a national hydrogen strategy, with AU$5.71 billion earmarked for production in former industrial sites, pilot projects for hard-to-abate industries, and research and development across the supply chain.

Italy’s national energy research agency has launched a Hydrogen Demo Valley, positioning Italy as a testbed for technologies from electrolysers to storage. For Australian partners eyeing hydrogen exports and industrial decarbonisation, this creates scope for collaboration.

A third is corporate demand. Power

expanding rapidly, rising 14 per cent year-on-year to 365 megawatt (MW) contracted in 2023. Drivers include datacentre expansion, hydrogen demand and multinational sustainability commitments. As Australia’s corporate PPA market grows, the Italian experience offers useful lessons.

What’s in it for Australia?

For an Australian audience, the Italian Pavilion is not just a glimpse of another country’s clean-energy ambitions. It is a chance to connect with a European industrial ecosystem that has scale, technical depth and regulatory momentum.

With Australia targeting 82 per cent renewable electricity by 2030, the pressure is on to deploy fast and at scale. Supply chain diversity and international know-how will be crucial. Italian companies bring both.

They also bring a history of engineering solutions in challenging contexts – from high-density cities to heritage landscapes – that may prove valuable as Australia balances renewables growth with planning and community concerns.

There is also a cultural dimension. Italy’s tradition of blending design with function could enrich the way renewable systems are integrated into buildings, farms and cities. As agrivoltaics, storage and distributed generation expand, aesthetics and social acceptance will matter alongside megawatts.

Looking ahead

By 2030, Italy expects to add about 65 GW of solar and wind. By then, Australia aims to have almost completely decarbonised its grid. Both countries face questions of grid integration, storage, and industrial decarbonisation. Both need talent, finance and public trust.

Partnerships forged at All Energy Australia will not solve these challenges alone, but they can seed collaborations in technology, investment and policy learning. With ITA’s active support, those collaborations have a better chance of maturing.

“We want to be partners in transition, not just suppliers,” Bernardini says.

“Our companies are ready to work with Australia in building a clean, resilient and competitive energy system.”

For visitors to All Energy Australia, the Italian Pavilion (RR123) offers a direct route into that partnership.

It is a reminder that the energy transition is about both international networks and domestic ambition.

Images: Italian Trade Agency

With an extensive manufacturing history, Italian companies combine high-technology and historial legacy.

ITA Director Simona Bernardini says companies are bringing technologies from hydrogen to smart grids to Australia.

The world comes to Melbourne for All Energy Australia

The Southern Hemisphere’s largest clean energy event returns to Melbourne – bigger, bolder, and more international than ever.

With batteries, EV (electric vehicle) infrastructure and grid tech in the spotlight, All Energy Australia is fast becoming a global hub for the energy transition.

All Energy Australia 2025 is poised to surpass all previous iterations, building on record-breaking momentum that saw more than 14,500 unique visitors and a 94 per cent surge in international delegates last year.

At the heart of this year’s event is a bold theme: Australia’s rising influence in the global energy transition – and how this sun-soaked continent is attracting the world’s attention.

“I started on the event in 2016, and it was considerably smaller than what it is now,” says Robby Clark, Exhibition Director at All Energy Australia.

“The market was already dominated by Chinese brands, which makes sense – they lead the way in solar and battery technology – but there was so much more that we could represent.”

Clark took it on himself to expand All Energy Australia’s international reach.

“We’ve proactively grown our international presence,” he says.

“That means attending events like Intersolar in Munich or Smart Energy Week in Japan and saying, ‘Australia is an important place for you to do business.’”

The pitch has become easier. With high rooftop solar uptake, growing battery storage, and strong policy backing, Australia offers a combination of technological appetite and real-world application.

“No one’s going to fly across the world to exhibit unless there’s business to be done, and there is – Australia is a hotspot,” Clark says.

Global, but grounded

Beyond the groundbreaking technology on show, Clark says the sense of shared purpose

is what draws global players in.

“There’s a real appetite for the energy of the future here. It’s become very clear, even politically, that the public backs renewables,” he says.

“We have geography on our side – lots of land, lots of sun, lots of rooftops – but we also have the right market conditions.”

This community-first ethos was powerfully on show at All Energy Australia 2024. From packed sessions on community energy and Virtual Power Plants (VPPs) to a full-day First Nations Energy program delivered in partnership with Good Energy Minds, the event actively foregrounds the social side of energy transition.

“We’re seeing what was theoretical five years ago become reality,” Clark says.

“I’ve seen community batteries being installed in my suburb. I walk past EV chargers on the street near my office. And when we run

a VPP session now, it fills a 260-seat room. A few years ago, we were lucky to get 80.”

For Clark, this rapid normalisation of once-niche innovations is one of the most satisfying shifts.

“It used to be that when someone said ‘VPP’ you had to explain what it meant. Now it’s just part of the language,” he says.

A new centre of gravity

If VPPs represent the community side of the transition, then Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) symbolise its technical backbone. At All Energy Australia, batteries are booming.

“Battery storage now has the strongest product representation on the show floor,” says Clark.

“Go back four or five years ago and it was all solar PV. Now, BESS dominates. It’s on every second stand.”

Packed sessions and participation are a mark of All Energy Australia’s strong engagement.

The scale has also changed.

“It used to be small units drilled onto walls. Now we’re craning in full containersized storage systems,” he says.

“Companies are dividing their stands between residential and industrial battery systems – it’s 50/50 now.”

This reflects a wider market trend. While residential storage remains crucial, largescale batteries are fast becoming essential to grid stability – especially as more renewables come online.

“You look at NSW, SA, the ACT – they’re all bringing big batteries online. And you’ll see that reflected on the show floor,” Clark says.

EV infrastructure in the spotlight

Another standout for 2025 is electric vehicle infrastructure. After years of calls for stronger EV representation, All Energy Australia has launched a dedicated EV Technology & Infrastructure Zone –developed in collaboration with the Electric Vehicle Council.

“EV is finally getting the space it deserves,” Clark says.

“But we’ve intentionally kept it tradefocused. This isn’t a consumer car show – it’s about the technology and infrastructure behind the vehicles.”

That means charging hardware, load balancing software, fleet integration tools, and more.

The timing could not be better. All Energy Australia has seen a 36 per cent increase in visitors looking for EV infrastructure solutions, and a 12 per cent rise in exhibitors

showcasing them. With EV charging still patchy across much of Australia, the sector is hungry for scalable, deployable solutions.

Grid smarts

Beyond batteries and EVs, All Energy Australia is also expanding in areas like grid integration and energy efficiency. In partnership with the Energy Efficiency Council, the event includes a growing dedicated zone and education theatre for smart energy management – crucial as the grid strains under the weight of new connections.

“We’ve got all this fantastic new renewable energy coming online,” says Clark.

“But the grid we’re plugging it into isn’t always fit for purpose. So we’re seeing more exhibitors and conference content focused on grid technology, consultants, and solutions providers.”

This aligns with the show’s steady move from pure renewables into the wider energy ecosystem.

As Clark says; “It’s not just about generating clean energy – it’s about managing and distributing it intelligently.”

Policy meets practice

Despite its technology-first focus, All Energy Australia does not shy away from the bigpicture questions. Policymakers, regulators and financiers are all part of the event’s opening plenary sessions, where national and state-level agendas are discussed openly.

“We’ve always had strong support

from the Victorian Government, which makes sense given the event’s home base,” says Clark.

“But we also get great representation from other states, especially around Renewable Energy Zones and large-scale project updates.”

Still, Clark is quick to emphasise the event’s practical, real-world atmosphere.

“It starts at that macro level, but it always comes back down to product, delivery, and people on the ground. That’s what makes it valuable.”

Face-to-face in a digital world

In an increasingly online world, All Energy Australia remains proudly in-person. According to Clark, that is part of its magic.

“Trade shows are about face-to-face interaction. It’s about touching a product, hearing an expert, having that conversation you didn’t expect to have – whether it’s over a coffee, in a session, or on the expo floor,” he says.

“That serendipity is what drives connection.”

It is also what helps bridge the gap between intention and execution.

“This industry is moving fast. Events like this give people a chance to stop, reset, and go deeper – to learn, network, partner, and come away with real momentum,” Clark says.

Looking ahead to 2030 and beyond, Clark sees continued evolution – both for the event and the sector.

“You’ve got to look backwards to look forwards. Ten or fifteen years ago, this industry was tiny. Now it’s booming, and there’s still plenty of growth to come,” he says.

He sees shifts coming in hydrogen, data centre energy, First Nations-led projects and more.

“Some technologies might pivot. Hydrogen is a great example – it’s changed formats, but it’s not gone. It’s evolving,” Clark says.

So is All Energy Australia.

“Now it’s truly international,” Clark says.

“More countries are coming. More manufacturers are launching products. The growth is only accelerating.”

All Energy Australia 2025 runs from 29–30 October at the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre. Entry is free and registration is now open.

Innovators and leaders will converge at All Energy Australia 2025, a major stage for the clean energy future.

Driving the next phase of EV infrastructure

Electric vehicles may no longer be novelties in Australia, but their presence on the road still reflects a system in transition.

At just over one per cent of the passenger fleet, electric vehicle (EV) uptake is climbing steadily, yet the challenges around infrastructure, market design and equitable access are becoming more complex.

Dr Alina Dini, Head of Energy and Infrastructure at the Electric Vehicle Council (EVC), is at the centre of that transformation.

Speaking ahead of All Energy Australia

2025, Dr Dini outlines a national EV agenda that’s no longer about proving viability, but rather accelerating scale, smoothing integration, and ensuring the benefits flow across every postcode.

“The cars are here. We’ve got over 150 EV models available in Australia and quite a few now under $60,000,” says Dini.

“But we’re still early in terms of market penetration. Our focus now is supporting the mainstream transition – and that

means building consumer confidence, grid readiness and inclusive access.”

Infrastructure beyond the highways

A decade ago, Australia’s EV charging map was patchy at best.

Today, thanks to targeted government investment and early movers in the private sector, the country’s fast-charging backbone is increasingly robust. But the next wave of infrastructure growth won’t be linear – it

will be local, responsive and data-driven.

“We’re now at a point where we need to fill in the gaps, the hotspots and the blackspots,” Dini says.

“But we lack access to shared data. Most EV usage data is commercially sensitive, held by different providers. That limits our ability to optimise placement of public chargers.”

She sees collaboration across industry, government and regulators as essential to building out charging coverage that’s smart, equitable and financially sustainable.

Part of this challenge includes unlocking charging in strata and apartment settings – a topic that’s set to feature prominently at this year’s All Energy Australia event in Melbourne.

EVs as grid assets

Electrification is about more than just replacing internal combustion engines.

As Dini notes, EVs are batteries on wheels – and they have the potential to reshape Australia’s energy landscape, especially in a grid increasingly powered by renewables.

“Vehicle-to-grid [V2G] technology is one of the most exciting parts of this transition. It’s a second bite at the cherry – using your EV not just for transport, but as a mobile energy resource,” she says.

The benefits go beyond individual households.

Aggregated EV storage could help lower electricity costs and boost system resilience during high-demand periods or renewables lulls. While the technical possibilities are promising, the commercial pathways remain underdeveloped.

Dini points to the need for greater regulatory clarity, consistent standards, and targeted funding to make V2G viable at scale. However, she is quick to emphasise that the value of EVs to the grid doesn’t begin and end with bidirectional charging.

“You don’t have to do V2G to be good for the grid,” she says.

“Charging at the right time – like during the day when solar is abundant – can make a real difference. It’s a simple behaviour shift that supports grid efficiency and decarbonisation.”

Policy leaps, but more needed

In the past two years, Australia has seen a burst of policy activity supporting EV uptake – from the introduction of a national vehicle fuel efficiency standard to the electric car discount and state-based incentives for buyers and infrastructure.

The results are showing. Figures from the

Australian Automobile Association show EVs made up 13 per cent of new car sales in the most recent quarter, and the industry is on track to hit a national fleet of one million electric vehicles by 2027.

But the next stage of policy must move from broad encouragement to targeted enablement, says Dini.

“We’re now appealing to a different cohort. Early adopters are already in. The mainstream market includes renters, apartment dwellers, lower-income households – people who face more barriers,” she says.

Examples of next-step policies include means-tested incentives, zero-interest loans for used EVs, and workplace charging schemes funded by commercial landlords or governments. These kinds of measures can expand access and reduce perceptions of EVs as a premium product.

Electrifying the regions

A priority for the EVC is ensuring that regional Australians are not left behind in the transition.

“We’ve seen strong take-up in cities and suburbs, but there’s less confidence in regional areas,” says Dini.

“It’s not just about range anxiety – it’s about visibility. If you don’t see charging infrastructure in your town or on your route, you’re less likely to believe it’s viable.”

She wants to see more public investment in regional charging corridors, alongside better public education about how far modern EVs can travel on a charge.

Another milestone area is off-street parking. With many Australians either renting or living in multi-unit dwellings, home charging is not a universal option. For these groups, ensuring access to convenient public or shared charging is critical.

Commercial momentum

While much of the public debate has focused on passenger EVs, Australia’s commercial and heavy vehicle sectors are rapidly evolving – and in many cases leading the charge.

“We’ve got brands overhauling their fleets and even integrating on-site renewables at depots. We’ve got others looking to manufacture electric prime movers in Queensland. That’s a powerful message: this isn’t just good for emissions, it’s good for business,” Dini says

Dini sees this as a pivotal moment. Major retailers, logistics companies and manufacturers are demonstrating not just

feasibility, but economic logic in switching to electric. Their actions help build confidence for smaller operators and local governments considering similar investments.

All Energy Australia: an incubator for action

As co-host of the EV Technology and Infrastructure stream at All Energy Australia 2025, the Electric Vehicle Council is preparing for its most ambitious showing yet.

Now in its second year of strong growth in EV-related attendance and programming, All Energy Australia has become a critical forum for cross-sector knowledge-sharing, says Dini.

“It’s where you go to step outside your bubble. To hear what’s happening at the fringes of your discipline and connect the dots,” she says.

“You’ve got high-calibre speakers, but also the chance to have informal conversations that often spark real innovation.”

With more than 50 expert speakers, 12 dedicated sessions and a growing number of exhibitors in the EV technology and infrastructure space, the event is expected to draw record interest in 2025. Key topics will include retrofitting apartments for EV charging, next-gen charging software, grid integration, and policies to unlock workplace and fleet charging.

Dini hopes attendees will take time to connect with the EVC team at the booth or in session, and reflect on how electrification intersects not just with transport, but energy planning, infrastructure design, and community equity.

Beyond 2030

While many targets have historically centred on 2030, Dini says the sector is already pivoting to a longer horizon.

“We’ve made incredible progress – and in some areas we’ll meet our 2030 goals ahead of schedule,” she says.

“But there’s still a lot more work to do. Now’s the time to start planning for 2035.”

From regulatory frameworks to charging equity to V2G integration, the roadmap is expanding. The tone has shifted from tentative to tactical – from “if” to “how soon”.

“The EV transition isn’t something coming,” Dini says.

“It’s something happening. And the more we coordinate across energy, infrastructure and transport, the smoother and more beneficial that transition will be for all Australians.”

The shifting shape of renewable delivery

As Australia races to decarbonise its grid, a quiet revolution is unfolding – powered not by mega-projects, but by small and mid-scale energy systems delivering big local impact.

Moving with Australia’s power shift is Specialised Energy Solutions (SES), a seasoned full-service energy partner now driving the national rollout of battery and hybrid solar-battery installations for councils, communities and businesses.

With large-scale renewables gaining maturity, SES sees opportunity in the growing demand for energy resilience at the local level – particularly in regional and periurban areas where grid capacity is strained and the benefits of distributed energy are immediate.

Smarter, smaller, sooner

bills and emissions, battery energy storage systems (BESS) and hybrid solar + BESS setups are enabling more Australians to store clean energy and use it when it matters.

For SES, the focus on small to mediumscale BESS projects is an expansion of the company’s deep engineering roots. Long known for its work in utility-scale renewables, SES now applies that same rigour to more modest-sized systems, treating every installation as critical infrastructure.

Utility discipline

Smaller projects don’t mean simpler execution. In fact, SES says they often

That includes detailed engineering, modular technologies, grid compliance, and hands-on commissioning support.

The aim is to deliver systems that are not only technically sound but also resilient, scalable, and easy to maintain.

Regional sites come with particular complexities, such as limited logistics, resources, and fragile grids. SES tackles these with robust design, flexible delivery models and localised operations. Urban installations, by contrast, demand close coordination with existing infrastructure and careful mitigation of construction disruption.

Battery storage and hybrid solarbattery systems are reshaping how Australian councils, communities and businesses manage energy.

under poor site conditions, creates latent defects that surface just after warranty periods. That’s when repair costs skyrocket.”

Instead, SES uses modular designs and proven frameworks to enable fast, clean execution – without compromising on durability or safety.

Every project is backed by rigorous quality assurance and clear client communication about long-term performance and risk.

“Our job doesn’t end at commissioning – it truly begins there – we remain committed throughout the asset’s entire lifecycle.”

“We guide clients to make the best longterm decisions. A slightly higher spend today can mean far lower O&M and better energy returns over the system’s life.”

Living values

SES’s approach to project delivery is grounded in three core principles: integrity,

Renewable projects

Retail solutions

Smart technology

Powering possibilities with cooperation, courage and commitment

For Beca’s new Energy Market Director Benjamin White, Australia’s renewable energy future hinges not just on policy, technology or investment – but on getting everyone to row in the same direction.

While Australia’s energy transition is often framed as a technical or economic puzzle, Benjamin White believes its greatest challenge is one of coordination.

“The challenge ahead is too big for any one player,” White says.

“We need government, investors, developers, advisors, communities and consumers all contributing to a coordinated and well-orchestrated energy future.”

A career built on perspective

White steps into the Beca role with a rare blend of experience – spanning public sector policy and strategy, global corporate renewables, utilities, and large-scale investment.

Based in Melbourne, he is one of three senior market directors brought on to drive Beca’s continued expansion across energy, water and defence in Australia.

His focus is strategic market growth, industry engagement, new service development and accelerating the firm’s energy footprint – particularly in transmission, generation and storage and deepening key adjacent services like planning, environmental, business case and project management.

It’s a job that resonates personally, as White explains.

“Energy is a deep passion of mine,” he says.

“I’ve spent more than a decade in the sector. Playing a senior role in the energy transition in Australia motivates me enormously.”

White brings a nuanced understanding of the system’s inner workings – having led project development, worked inside government, and most recently served as Senior Director at Norwegian global energy supermajor Equinor.

“Government has a central role to play –

policy, regulatory frameworks, investment certainty,” he says.

“But I also understand what a project needs to succeed commercially and socially. You need a route to market, a sustainable and secure rate of return, and a business case that stacks up over the long term. We want our utilities and private sector to be doing well – because a strong, profitable energy sector ultimately serves the end customer.”

Ambition, capability and partnership

White’s new employer, Beca, has made no secret of its energy sector ambitions.

Building on established transmission and broader power engineering credentials, the firm is scaling up fast in renewable generation and storage development services. It offers clients an integrated value chain of complementary services like environmental planning and approvals, project and asset management.

White sees this dual capability as central to delivering not just technical solutions, but in establishing even deeper partnerships.

“When you bring design, engineering and complementary additional services to the

table, clients value it, I know I certainly did spending most of my career on the owner and developer side” he says.

“Providing an end-to-end service allows for more efficiency, rigour and helps clients hold up to regulatory and commercial scrutiny.”

White believes this holistic view – and Beca’s culture of care and agility as a true partner – is what sets the company apart.

“It’s ambitious but never loses sight of quality,” he says.

“We want to partner well, not just with clients but also with other service providers. This isn’t a short-term play – Australia needs authentic and long-term partnerships.

“We are a purpose driven organisation, ‘make every day better’, this really means something for our people.

“Helping to solve Australia’s biggest energy and transition challenges is something that inspires us to come to work every day.”

If that sounds like the language of someone who’s been on all sides of the table, that’s because he has.

White was an executive in the Victorian Government, deeply involved in creating and leading Victoria’s renewable energy strategy and first reverse auction scheme for large scale onshore renewables and storage capacity. He’s worked closely with the Commonwealth, other states, private sector and market regulatory bodies. He later served as Chief Development Officer for the nationally significant high-voltage directcurrent (HVDC) interconnector Marinus Link – a role that gave him a front-row seat to the complexities of developing large-scale transmission builds.

“Every major transmission project has hit some kind of bottleneck,” he says.

“These are largely greenfield developments – not even most transmission businesses let

Beca’s new Energy Market Director Benjamin White.

Image: Beca

alone governments have built at this scale for over 40 years. It’s new territory in the energy sector in many ways.”

While some see this as a constraint, White sees opportunity for firms like Beca, and for Australia more broadly.

“We need backbone infrastructure to guide us – superhighways for our energy generation and storage assets to connect and to support our major industries and communities. It’s been said before and still holds true that there’s no transition without transmission,” he says.

It’s not just infrastructure, but investment ecosystems, that need tuning. White is vocal about the importance of creating investment certainty, supply chain activation and regulatory streamlining.

“We need policy and investment signals that allow industries to grow and capital to flow. If supply chains know there’s a pipeline of projects that are bankable, we get local content and workforce uplift, we get projects reaching Final Investment Decision (FID), that in turn lower costs as things scale, leading to greater energy supply and grid security,” he says.

“But that requires planning systems to be enablers – not blockers – while still maintaining environmental stewardship, consumer benefits and incorporating First Nations wisdom.”

White is encouraged by progress, pointing to Victoria’s new transmission plan, the outcome of the recent Productivity Roundtable to move at pace by enacting faster and simpler project approvals, and the recent final investment decision for Marinus Link’s first stage.

However, White warns the sector cannot afford to be too risk averse or polarised.

“If we can cross the Rubicon to genuine coordination and collaboration with a shared end goal of a cleaner, fairer and more prosperous energy future, we’ll be well on our way to victory. Right now, we’re all still somewhat getting in our own way at the river bank,” he says.

Lessons from abroad

That view is shaped not only by a love of history but by international perspective. White brings insights from the energy transitions in Europe, the US and APAC.

“No one’s doing the transition perfectly,” he says.

“But the UK is probably the closest model to our own east coast system in Australia –retiring coal, building renewables, some gas, greater interconnection and using offshore

wind as a new baseload. We might not see offshore wind here at the same scale or pace, but the lesson is in sequencing: get the order right, get the settings right and have national level buy-in.”

Asked when Australia should seriously consider scaling offshore wind, White is cautious but hopeful.

“These are huge infrastructure undertakings – technically complex and capital-intensive. They only work if there is pathway to profitability,” he says.

“We’ve seen promising segments like green hydrogen fade due to commercial and pricing hurdles. Offshore wind may follow a similar trajectory. That’s not to say they are off the table. There is room and a role for all in the energy transition. But the low-hanging fruit for now is still onshore wind, solar, batteries and transmission. That’s where Beca is focused.”

White also sees new frontiers opening –particularly data centres.

“They’re emerging as critical infrastructure, sitting at the nexus of energy, water and defence. If done strategically, they can be part of the solution – dynamic assets that can play a significant role in the market and respond flexibly to market signals, like smelters and batteries.”

Culture and the talent challenge

The energy transition is not just a technical or policy challenge – it’s a workforce challenge. For White, culture is everything.

“We look for people with talent, yes –and also the right attitude. We value an enterprising spirit. People who want to solve problems and work alongside clients for the long haul,” he says.

“The opportunity the talent challenge unlocks for an organisation like Beca, is we

have fabulous bench strength and depth that allows us not only to leverage our people in Australia but also draw on our integrated technical talent from the entire international business. Beca does that well.”

Environmental planners and impact assessors are especially in demand, and White knows the field well – his academic background is in natural resource management and land planning.

“They’re like gold in this industry. If we don’t have enough of them, we can’t move projects forward in a way that respects both communities and ecosystems,” he says.

White says purpose and people keep him going when the transition path gets rough.

“You’ve got to ask yourself – what’s your deeper purpose? For me, it’s my two daughters. I want to be able to say I played a part in creating a future that’s cleaner, safer and more prosperous,” he says.

He points out that it helps to be surrounded by people with the same drive and outlook.

“When you work with others who are competent and passionate, and you can sit across from clients knowing you’re all aligned – that’s what keeps you energised. And in equal measure you’ve got to be tenacious and caring. You’ve got to love problem-solving and doing business,’ he says.

With that mindset, and the national energy market at a pivotal juncture, White sees this moment not as a crisis, but as an invitation.

“In Australia, we’re not short on natural advantages,” he says.

“We need competitive tension of course, that is vital, but perhaps more than ever at this point in time we need greater cooperation, courage and commitment to unlock Australia’s prosperity and productivity – so what are we waiting for?

“Let’s get this done.”

Australia’s transmission backbone can connect renewables, storage and communities.

Image: Sarah/stock.adobe.com

Building trust through steady growth

From a rewarding Aged Care project in Tasmania to growing partnerships across Australia, Melbourne Energy Group continues to focus on delivering quality installations one project at a time.

This year Melbourne Energy Group (MEG) took on another major interstate project, 2.5 megawatthours (MWh) in total across aged care facilities in Tasmania, presenting an exciting opportunity to extend their reach.

“The Tasmania project was significant for us, not just in scale but also in complexity,” says Director and Co-Founder Shane Smillie. “Working across multiple aged care sites in a different state presented logistical challenges and it was incredibly rewarding to complete.”

The rollout shows MEG’s confidence in handling complex commercial projects while maintaining the quality standards that have become its hallmark.

Growing with purpose

The Tasmania project was part of a broader focus on aged care facilities that has defined much of MEG’s recent work. Installations across Victorian aged care sites have

showcased the company’s ability to navigate the unique challenges these environments present.

“Aged care facilities require a different approach,” Shane explains. “You’re working around vulnerable populations, dealing with tight access constraints, and every site has its own engineering hurdles to overcome.”

One project that particularly tested the team involved installing a shared solar system across 60 apartments within an independent living facility, using SolShare technology to distribute energy across multiple units.

“The technical complexity was significant,” Shane says. “Integrating shared solar into existing infrastructure while maintaining clear communication with staff and residents required careful planning and execution.”

These projects helped MEG refine their approach to complex installations, building

experience that has proven valuable across their expanding portfolio of schools, universities, and commercial clients.

Recognition and new partnerships

MEG’s focus on quality delivery was recently acknowledged when the company was named REC/ ANZ Commercial Installer of the Year at the Smart Energy Gala Dinner. The recognition, based largely on its aged care portfolio, validated the team’s commitment to technical excellence.

“The award was a nice acknowledgment of the work we’ve been putting in,” says Shane. “It reflects our team’s capability and the relationships we’ve built with clients in sectors like aged care.”

Building on this foundation, MEG has also been accepted as a Preferred Partner with Origin Energy, joining a select group of installers who have met stringent technical, operational and customer service standards.

Melbourne Energy Group is celebrating steady growth through complex solar projects, including a community project in Sandy Bay, Tasmania.

The partnership opens new opportunities for MEG’s residential clients, including access to programs such as a Virtual Power Plant initiative that helps coordinate distributed energy systems. For MEG, it represents another step in building trusted relationships within Australia’s energy sector.

“It’s a good opportunity to help more households participate in grid stability while maintaining control over their energy use,” Shane says. “We’re pleased to offer solutions that extend beyond just installation.”

Tailored solutions, reliable delivery

MEG’s approach remains centred on understanding each client’s specific needs rather than offering standard packages. Whether the project involves solar photovoltaic systems, battery storage, electric vehicle infrastructure, or integrated solutions, the process begins with detailed consultation.

“Every client has a different operating profile,” Shane says. “Our strength lies in adapting through tailored engineering and design rather than pushing one-size-fits-all solutions.”

This bespoke approach extends to MEG’s delivery model. All installations are handled by the company’s own licensed electricians. It’s a commitment to quality control that Shane considers essential.

“We handle everything in-house because we believe that’s how you maintain consistent standards,” he says. “Quality and safety aren’t negotiable - they’re the foundation of everything we do.”

The team has continued investing in analytics and energy modelling software to better match client energy profiles with optimal solar and battery configurations, helping avoid over-engineering while delivering value-driven outcomes.

Growing with purpose

Founded by Shane and fellow electrician Toby, MEG has evolved from a tight-knit Melbourne team to a company capable of handling large projects Australia-wide. However, their growth strategy remains client-focused rather than expansion-driven.

“We certainly have the capacity to work nationally, and we’re focused on supporting our current clients wherever they need us,” Shane says. “If that means going interstate, we’re ready to do that.”

This measured approach includes partnering with other engineering, procurement and construction companies

more, but it’s how we maintain consistent standards while developing the skills Australia’s renewable sector needs.”

Building on solid foundations

As Australia’s renewable energy sector continues to mature, MEG’s focus on quality delivery and client relationships positions the company well for continued growth.

The Origin Energy partnership and recent industry recognition reflect the value of MEG’s steady approach - building capabilities through challenging projects, maintaining high standards, and developing trusted relationships with both clients and industry partners.

For MEG’s client base, this translates to access to new programs and technologies, backed by a team with proven experience in complex installations.

“We’re not interested in growing just for the sake of growth,” Shane reflects. “We want to do this properly, with the right people, and for the right reasons. At the end of the day, we’re here because we believe renewable energy matters - not just for our clients’ energy bills, but for the bigger picture too.”

For more information, visit melbourneenergygroup.com.au

Melbourne Energy Group Director and cofounder Shane Smillie.

A 199.8-kilowatt solar installation for the Queenborough Rise Community in Sandy Bay, Tasmania.

Victoria maps out 15-year transmission plan

Victoria has taken a decisive step in shaping its energy future with the release of the 2025 Victorian Transmission Plan (VTP).

Victoria’s first long-term strategy for renewable energy zones and transmission is as much about people and planning as it is about engineering, marking a shift in how the state will connect new renewables while managing land use, communities and Traditional Owner rights.

“The [Victorian Transmission Plan] VTP is the cornerstone of a new approach – one that reflects not just engineering and economics, but also the values and voices of communities who host our energy infrastructure,” Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio says.

The offshore wind challenge

Victoria is a frontrunner on offshore wind, with declared areas in Gippsland and the Southern Ocean. Connecting turbines requires complex onshore infrastructure, so VicGrid has proposed a Gippsland Shoreline REZ.

This zone will coordinate underground cables and substations, factoring in cultural heritage mapping, wetlands and road crossings. It avoids a first-come, first-served scramble and aims to reduce community pushback.

Transmission: the backbone of the transition

Installers can expect shorter lead times and stronger technical support under a new distribution model.

The VTP stems from reforms to the National Electricity (Victoria) Act 2005, giving VicGrid authority to publish a longterm plan. This first edition covers 2025–40, with future updates extending to 25 years. It moves away from piecemeal development towards a coordinated model that considers land use, environmental impacts and community views earlier.

For communities, this means consultation up front. For investors, it offers certainty about where and when grid capacity will be built.

Renewable energy zones

The plan identifies six renewable energy zones (REZs): Central Highlands, Central North, Gippsland, North West, South West and Western, covering 7.9 per cent of the state’s land. Each zone was selected through least-cost modelling, land-use assessment and community feedback.

By 2040, Victoria plans to add 5.7–9.6 gigawatts (GW) of onshore wind, 9 GW of offshore wind, 2.3–8.9 GW of large-scale solar, and 4.8–7.7 GW of new storage. These ranges reflect scenarios based on stepchange demand, energy-intensive industries, or delays.

The VTP outlines seven major transmission programs to 2040, including four new lines: a second Gippsland loop for offshore wind, a 500 kilovolt Sydenham–Tarrone line, a Truganina–Deer Park link, and a Hazelwood–Yallourn line.

Other programs include reinforcements in western and eastern Victoria, Latrobe Valley upgrades, and a Portland line uprating for Southern Ocean offshore wind.

Two programs must be completed by 2030, three by 2035, and the rest by 2040, timed with the closure of Yallourn in 2028 and Loy Yang A in 2035.

The modelling is blunt: without these investments, Victoria faces higher bills, insecure supply, and a $9.6 billion economic hit. Benefits include reduced curtailment, fewer private connection assets, and better use of low-cost renewable energy.

VicGrid’s cost-benefit analysis shows the seven programs’ benefits exceed costs “by a considerable margin”.

Communities and Traditional Owners

Community and cultural impacts are central to the plan. Earlier drafts relied only on public datasets for Aboriginal and Historical heritage, but future work will follow a

Traditional Owner-led process for mapping and data sovereignty.

VicGrid is proposing REZ Community Energy Funds for supply chains, research, energy affordability and jobs. Dedicated benefits for Traditional Owners aim to go beyond inclusion, delivering economic empowerment and self-determination.

For developers, projects inside REZs will gain priority access rights, while those outside face stricter Grid Impact Assessments. This design provides investment certainty while aligning projects with transmission capacity and land priorities.

In the offshore space, competition for Gippsland cable landing sites will be mediated by VicGrid’s access regime, ensuring fairness and reducing duplication.

The VTP will be updated in 2027 and every four years, with earlier changes possible if demand or technology shifts.

By 2045, Victoria aims to reach net zero, with 95 per cent renewables by 2035 and nine GW of offshore wind in place. Delivering the VTP provides “a clear pathway that delivers more affordable, reliable, secure and sustainable outcomes for all Victorians”.

Transgrid plans a decade’s needs

New South Wales has ended its ramp-up decade and now faces the “deep transition” – a ten-year sprint where coal exits, renewables surge and the grid must be rebuilt to handle an entirely new operating reality.

With coal power stations closing, renewable generation accelerating and demand shifting in unpredictable ways, New South Wales’ electricity system is preparing for a wholesale redesign to stay reliable and affordable.

“During this time, we forecast NSW transitioning from the current threshold of about 40 per cent renewable energy, to around 90 per cent in 2035,” says Transgrid CEO Brett Redman.

“It will take the aligned efforts of our entire sector to accelerate progress and ensure renewable generation and security services are ready on time as coal retires so that energy consumers have ready access to more affordable energy.”

That forecast frames the 2025 Transmission Annual Planning Report (TAPR), which sets out both the urgency and the opportunity of this decade.

The report highlights a rapid buildout of solar, wind, batteries and transmission corridors, alongside looming system challenges: zero minimum demand, rising data-centre loads, and a volatile reliability outlook.

Over the past ten years, NSW has quintupled its wind and solar output to eight gigawatts (GW) utility-scale, plus eight

gigawatts (GW) rooftop solar and one GW of utility storage. Coal’s share has fallen to 60 per cent.

The decade ahead accelerates that curve. By 2035, coal is expected to supply just five per cent of generation. Renewables and storage must fill the gap: over 23 GW of new utility-scale solar and wind, 10 GW of utility storage, eight GW of additional rooftop PV and three GW of household batteries.

Delivering this portfolio requires an expanded transmission backbone.

Projects such as EnergyConnect, HumeLink, VNI West, the Hunter Transmission Project and Sydney Ring South are flagged as critical. Collectively, they are intended to move clean generation from Renewable Energy Zones into Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong – which consume 80 per cent of the state’s electricity.

The TAPR makes clear, however, that sequencing is fraught.

“Projects are unlikely to line up perfectly in time or sequence,” Redman warns in the foreword.

“That’s why we’re calling for our sector to come together and create a healthier buffer – regardless of interim energy-generation mix – to ensure reliability of supply given the complexity of the task and presence of new technologies”.

The most striking projection is minimum demand falling to zero by the early 2030s. Already, NSW has recorded a 40 per cent drop in minimum demand since 2020, with a record low of 2824 megawatts (MW) in February 2025 – just four months after the previous low. With another eight GW of rooftop solar forecast by 2035, these troughs deepen.

EnergyConnect’s Buronga substation.

Components for a synchronous condenser arrive at EnergyConnect’s Dinawan substation.

The system stress test

Zero minimum demand a milestone, but also a system stress test. Without coal’s synchronous inertia, the grid risks instability. Transgrid has stated it will require ten new large synchronous condensers, plus up to five GW of gridforming batteries by 2033. It is also exploring synchronous condenser modes for hydro and gas units, and upgrades to control-room technology to avoid running the system on static conservative settings.

Meanwhile, demand is reshaping.

The TAPR forecasts 5200 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electric-vehicle charging by 2035.

them. Vehicle-to-grid services could provide local reliability if widely adopted.

Industrial demand is also shifting. The report cites BlueScope Steel’s exploration of direct reduced iron technology as a pathway to decarbonising steelmaking, which could add hundreds of megawatts of new load.

However, it is data centres that loom largest.

Sydney, particularly its west, has become the national hub for hyperscale developments, with over 10 GW of connection enquiries and four GW in the application stage. These loads could exceed those of EVs, making “exporting megawatts as megabytes” both a challenge and an opportunity, Redman says.

Tight margins and the race against coal’s

exit

The reliability outlook is tight. With Eraring due to retire in 2027 and Bayswater and Vales Point by 2033, supply margins shrink. TAPR modelling shows Lack of Reserve (LOR1) conditions emerging postEraring. Delays in renewables, storage or transmission projects could compound the risk. Origin Energy has provisions to extend Eraring to 2029 if reliability is at risk, a scenario the TAPR acknowledges.

To bridge the gap, Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong will need at least six GW of additional firm capacity by 2035.

Options include gas peakers (limited by transmission and fuel supply constraints), batteries (fast-deploying but limited

duration), and distributed storage aggregated into virtual power plants. But Transgrid warns these may not be sufficient alone, and stronger southern transmission – via Sydney Ring South – will be essential.

Beyond 2035, the TAPR looks to a “new transitioned era” where NSW runs almost fully on renewables. Here, diversification becomes key.

Transgrid has begun developing concepts for Remote Inland Renewable Energy Opportunity Areas (REOAs) in Broken Hill, South Cobar and Hillston. These zones could mitigate renewable drought risk by spreading generation across geography and resource types. The report notes that while costly, such investment could offset the need for long-duration storage and reduce wholesale price volatility.

The TAPR paints a picture of both acceleration and constraint.

On one hand, 6.6 GW of projects have moved through key connection milestones since 2024. Connection interest from batteries has surged, with over three GW heading towards commissioning. On the other, labour shortages, supply chain delays and sequencing risks threaten to erode the tight buffer between coal exits and renewable replacements.

For industry, the TAPR delivers a blunt message: build in lockstep and spread risk across technologies and regions. For policymakers, the call is to accelerate approvals, drive reform and keep communities onside.

EnergyConnect’s highvoltage conductor stringing works at Balranald.

Transgrid CEO Brett Redman on the EnergyConnect construction site.

Don’t miss the Clean Energy Council masterclasses at All Energy Australia

29–30 October 2025 Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre

Get expert insights on rooftop solar, batteries, EV charging and more. All sessions are free and installers and designers can earn CPD points.

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Masterclass

How climate ambition can future-proof Australia’s economy

Fifteen years after turning down a carbon price for fear of slowing economic growth, Australia faces a new choice – ecogeneration Editor Tim Hall writes.

The critical decisions now facing government, industry and the land sector are no longer about whether to act on climate, but how fast and how boldly those actions can be delivered.

As CORE Markets CEO Chris Halliwell told the Australian Emissions Reduction (AER) Summit, the next decade will define the country’s economic and climate future. Delay is no longer an option.

“The idea that we have a choice is an illusion. No credible leader, economist, or business is arguing for delay – because delay is not a path, it’s a dead end,” Halliwell said.

A tale of three sectors: Land, business, and the market

In his keynote, Halliwell offered three grounded perspectives – from the land sector, corporate Australia, and the carbon market – that chart the trajectory of Australia’s decarbonisation efforts. Each story is rooted in lived experience. Together, they offer a roadmap to a net zero future..

Land sector

Fifteen years ago, farmers battling the worst drought in the nation’s history had

little reason to think carbon markets were for them. Productivity had dropped by around 20 per cent, billions in revenue was lost, and the idea of monetising carbon was viewed as complex and far removed from day-to-day agriculture.

However, an early Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF) project – such as a mixedspecies native planting in Queensland – has likely since delivered resilience to drought, flooding and erosion while increasing the land’s value and generating hundreds of thousands of credits.

Today, some early developers have matured into sophisticated players managing large-scale portfolios, including processes to secure free, prior and informed consent (FPIC) for new projects and even deploying digital twins to monitor permanence and performance in real-time. Carbon is increasingly part of an integrated agribusiness model, alongside regenerative agriculture and biodiversity services.

“Try explaining that to someone 15 years ago,” Halliwell said.

By 2040, the land sector could be one of Australia’s most valuable climate assets –sequestering carbon, restoring ecosystems,

and underpinning food security. The opportunity is vast. But its realisation hinges on climate policy that matches the scale of the vision.

Corporate sector

In 2010, climate action in large companies rarely moved beyond a paragraph in a sustainability report. Strategy, if it existed, was siloed and vague.

Today it is a very different story.

“Climate risk and opportunity now sit with Treasury, Future Industries, Corporate Risk and the Board,” Halliwell said.

Mandatory climate reporting, emissionsrelated trade measures like the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), and shareholder scrutiny are pushing firms to think longterm – and act.

By 2040, Halliwell believes, Australia could be exporting premium low-carbon products to global markets, with industrial emissions slashed and carbon accounting embedded in supply chains.

This ambition rests on a carbon market that is liquid, trusted, and equipped for growth.

Australia’s carbon choices are no longer optional, and delay is a dead end.

Carbon market

Australia’s carbon market did not exist 15 years ago. There were no carbon credit units, no registry, no recognised methodologies – just political inertia and missed opportunities.

Today, it is a national asset. Over 2000 projects are now registered, underpinned by more than 30 methodologies and a functioning regulator. The market is projected in government announcements to generate over $2 billion in revenue for the land sector.

By 2040, Halliwell envisions a carbon market worth billions annually, plugged into regional trading networks, and supporting the land and corporate transformations already underway.

Much is already settled

The case for climate ambition is no longer theoretical. Deloitte estimates that inaction will cost the global economy US $178 trillion over the next 50 years. In contrast, accelerating the transition could generate a net gain of US $43 trillion.

Legally, too, the tide has turned. The International Court of Justice has issued a unanimous advisory opinion that nations have obligations to align policy with the best available climate science.

“This isn’t an abstract statement. It’s an authoritative signal that the rules of the game have changed,” Halliwell said.

Australia already has a carbon price, through the Safeguard Mechanism. The question now is whether we will deepen and expand it – or continue operating a fragmented system that covers just 30 per cent of national emissions.

The real debt is invisible

In mid-August, at the time of the Summit, the ACCU price sat around $36, the AER’s benchmark for genuine abatement is already $75 – and could hit $157 by 2035. That gap represents a growing “phantom debt” of future climate liability.

“If we delay, the cost of carbon doesn’t disappear,” Halliwell warned.

“It’s just shifted – deferred to future budgets, future policy, and future generations.”

Meanwhile, Australia’s true emissions footprint is far larger than the official 1 per cent of global emissions often quoted.

When accounting for the carbon embedded in coal and gas exports, Australia’s share jumps to 4.5 per cent – and could rise to 9.1 per cent by 2035, according to independent projections. That is a contingent liability of $1.5 trillion at future carbon prices – unaccounted for, but economically very real.

Modelling ambition

CORE Markets modelling, commissioned by the Carbon Market Institute, shows how

ambition is measurable – and how every increase in Australia’s 2035 emissions reduction target brings tangible results.

A 75 per cent cut by 2035 (from 2005 levels) could unlock an extra 67 million tonnes of abatement beyond business-asusual. An 80 per cent target would deliver 99 million tonnes.

“The 75 per cent scenario – or higher – is what makes the 2040 vision tangible,” Halliwell said.

“It’s what gets the land sector to scale, what makes zero-carbon exports our default, and what embeds Australia’s carbon market in a thriving regional network.”

Australia as a net zero leader

If ambition is matched by action, Halliwell paints a 2040 vision of Australia as a world leader in clean energy and carbon solutions.

The land sector could see millions of hectares sequestering carbon while producing food and restoring ecosystems. Advanced technologies like AI and remote sensing would be standard tools for monitoring and verification.

Corporate Australia could dominate in zero-carbon metals, manufacturing and agri-tech. Fossil fuels would be largely phased out, replaced by competitive low-emissions supply chains backed by instantaneous emissions tracking and reliable offsets.

The carbon market itself could become a high-volume, high-integrity engine for decarbonisation – trading credits and insetting units in real time, integrated with other environmental markets.

From hesitation to leadership

Australia has already paid the price for past hesitation. The nation turned down a carbon price when it mattered and convinced itself the storm was still on the horizon.

“All that did was water down ambition –and we missed it,” Halliwell said.

Now, Australia is in the storm. The decisions made in the next five years will shape the next 50.

“This is not a call for ideology,” Halliwell said.

“It’s a call for delivery – delivery that safeguards not just industry, but First Nations knowledge, natural systems, regional advantage, and our future economic sovereignty.”

The only real risk left is failing to act.

Land, business and markets show the path to a net zero future.

Subsidy sparks record home battery uptake

A record 19,592 home battery systems were installed in the first month of the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program, according to the Clean Energy Regulator (CER).

The sharp uptake comes as industry bodies continue to push for a permanent national incentive, citing benefits for both households and the wider energy system.

Modelling has shown that a program offering up to $6500 per household could deliver over 400,000 additional battery installations and net savings of $190 million.

Orchestrated battery systems – those connected to virtual power plants – are projected to save households between $1150 and $1500 annually, compared to $900–$1000 for standalone systems. They also help reduce peak demand, store excess midday solar, and provide backup during outages.

However, cost remains a barrier. Without subsidies, payback periods are long, meaning affluent early adopters have dominated the market.

“Batteries will remain for the few, not the many,” the Clean Energy Council warns, unless rebates are introduced alongside strict requirements for quality systems,

ethical sales practices and safe installations. Product safety is central to the push.

In the first month, 825 lithium-based batteries were approved under the Council’s Battery Assurance Program, which verifies compliance with the Australian or international lithium battery safety standard 62619:2017. This list is mandatory for installations under both the federal and Western Australia Residential Battery schemes.

Rebates have sparked record demand for home batteries across Australia.

The Clean Energy Council has flagged a surge in applications for product approval, with technical assessments taking around 10 weeks to start and full accreditation requiring a further two to six months, depending on documentation quality.

With coal plant retirements looming and Australia targeting 82 per cent renewable generation by 2030, industry advocates see home batteries as critical grid assets rather than niche consumer luxuries.

Research maps behavioural barriers to Net Zero homes

Australians are keen to cut home energy use, but cost, complexity and confidence gaps are slowing uptake of high-impact upgrades, new government research shows.

The Behavioural Economics Team of the Australian Government (BETA) surveyed nearly 4900 people for its Towards Net Zero study, examining how households decide on upgrades such as rooftop solar, insulation and double glazing.

Despite strong interest in lowering bills and emissions, the findings show the decision process is often derailed by financial and informational barriers.

Cost is the leading hurdle.

Homeowners have shown growing interest in cutting bills and emissions despite barriers to upgrades.

together created stronger perceived value than any single benefit alone.

Complementary BETA research on decision-support tools, released in late 2024, found policy levers that could shift behaviour.

Two-thirds of solar owners cited bill savings as their main motivation, but almost half reported upfront expenses made the decision harder. Those without solar were even more likely to view cost as the primary barrier.

Batteries faced similar resistance, with reduced feed-in tariffs also dampening uptake.

Cost-of-living pressures rarely spurred investment: just six per cent of respondents said they had upgraded to more efficient appliances in response, and four per cent had renovated to improve efficiency.

Technical complexity is another brake. Half of respondents planning solar said choosing the right system size,

installer and budget – and navigating technical jargon – was difficult.

Low awareness compounds the challenge: 18 per cent did not know if their home had insulation, and only 11 per cent had ever had an energy assessment, with many unable to recall the result. Just eight per cent were “very confident” they knew which household actions most effectively cut emissions.

Confidence emerged as a critical enabler.

Households reporting higher confidence levels were more likely to already have insulation, double glazing, solar panels or electric vehicles installed. Respondents also valued the bundled benefits of upgrades –emissions reduction, comfort, bill savings and higher resale value – which

Trials with 13,800 participants showed mandatory disclosure of home energy ratings at sale or lease increased both buyers’ and sellers’ likelihood of choosing energy upgrades, especially when ratings were low. Sellers told disclosure was mandatory were 11 percentage points more likely to prioritise an energy upgrade over cosmetic changes. Access to clear, comparable ratings also improved buyers’ ability to select more efficient homes.

However, digital advice tools showed mixed results: while they boosted confidence, they did not increase nearterm intention to upgrade.

The most requested resources were rebate information, cost-savings calculators and tailored upgrade guidance.

The findings further show that reaching Net Zero by 2050 will require targeted measures to reduce upfront costs, simplify technical decisions and raise consumer confidence.

Without these, households are more likely to delay or abandon high-impact energy upgrades.

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Rooftop solar supplies 11

Victoria’s appetite for rooftop solar is reshaping the state’s energy mix, with panels now producing almost 11 per cent of total electricity demand.

Rooftop solar is making a record contribution in Victoria, underscoring the technology’s central role in the state’s energy transition.

Figures have been released in Victoria’s annual renewable generation update, which confirm that renewables supplied more than 42 per cent of the state’s electricity in 2024–25.

The contribution from small-scale solar was a standout, with households, warehouses and office rooftops providing the equivalent of one in every nine kilowatt-hours consumed.

“Our record investment in renewable energy is paying off – Victoria consistently has the lowest wholesale power prices in the country, helping to

per cent

of Victoria’s grid

slash energy bills for families and businesses,” said Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio.

Victoria has already met its legislated 40 per cent renewable energy target a year ahead of schedule and is pushing towards 65 per cent by 2030 and 95 per cent by 2035.

While 90 large-scale wind and solar projects now deliver nearly seven gigawatts of capacity, rooftop systems are increasingly the state’s quiet workhorse.

The surge in distributed solar is reshaping grid management.

With more than 50 gigawatts of projects either proposed or committed, planners are banking on rooftop generation and battery storage to help stabilise evening demand peaks.

According to the government, current projects under development will be able

to power 574,000 households a year, with storage meeting the evening needs of nearly a million homes.

Victoria’s wholesale power price averaged $107 per megawatt hour last financial year – the lowest in the National Electricity Market and well below New South Wales at $151.

Analysts point to cheap rooftop generation suppressing daytime wholesale prices as one of the drivers.

Industry observers say rooftop solar remains the most direct and visible sign of Victoria’s shift away from coal.

But the growth also raises technical and policy challenges, from voltage management in local networks to the speed of grid upgrades flagged in the new Victorian Transmission Plan.

Rooftop solar is supplying nearly one in every nine kilowatt-hours consumed across

Victoria.

Image: Adam Calaitzis/stock.adobe.com

The centuries-old ecological knowledge embedded in First Nations seasonal calendars may soon shape the future of solar forecasting.

A new study from Charles Darwin University (CDU) has shown that Indigenous knowledge systems, when combined with advanced artificial intelligence, can deliver major improvements in predicting rooftop and utility-scale solar output.

At present, installers and grid operators face the ongoing challenge of variability. Weather, cloud movement, and atmospheric conditions make solar output notoriously hard to forecast with accuracy. Even the most sophisticated models still carry sizeable error margins.

The CDU research team believes First Nations calendars – rooted in generations of close observation of ecological and seasonal cues – can help fill this gap.

The study integrated four Northern Territory calendars – Tiwi, Gulumoerrgin (Larrakia), Kunwinjku, and Ngurrungurrudjba – alongside the Red Centre calendar into a new framework called FNS-Metrics.

These metrics were then used to train an advanced computer model that combines three powerful artificial intelligence (AI) tools – one that spots patterns, one that focuses on important details, and one that remembers past trends.

The hybrid, dubbed a Conv-Ensemble, was tested against solar and meteorological data collected between 2019 and 2024 from the Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre in Alice Springs – the world’s largest multi-

technology demonstration site. The results were striking.

By adding First Nations seasonal knowledge, the model became much more accurate. It made forecasts about 15 per cent better and cut mistakes by more than a quarter – performing more than twice as well as many current systems.

For solar professionals, that level of accuracy could transform planning and grid integration. Fewer surprises in output means improved system sizing, better battery management, and stronger business cases for both residential and commercial projects.

Co-author and Bundjalang researcher Luke Hamlin explains why the Indigenous calendars make such a difference.

“Incorporating First Nations seasonal knowledge into solar power generation predictions can significantly enhance accuracy by aligning forecasts with natural cycles that have been observed and understood for thousands of years,” he says.

“Unlike conventional calendar systems, these seasonal insights are deeply rooted in local ecological cues, such as plant and animal behaviours, which are closely tied to changes in sunlight and weather patterns.”

The research also found that some calendars contributed more strongly than others, depending on geographic context.

For instance, Ngurrungurrudjba seasonal knowledge offered the biggest boost in accuracy because it aligned most closely with the climate patterns around Alice Springs.

This suggests forecasting models

could be tailored region by region using the most relevant cultural calendars.

CDU’s Associate Professor of Information Technology Bharanidharan Shanmugam says there is significant wider potential.

“Accurate solar power prediction is challenging, and these challenges hinder the development of a universal prediction model,” he says.

His co-author Dr Thuseethan Selvarajah adds: “The success of the proposed approach suggests that it could be a valuable tool for advancing solar power generation prediction in rural areas, and in future work we’ll explore the applications of the model to other regions and renewable energy sources.”

The project also built a new dataset, AliDKA, from five years of five-minute interval readings at the Desert Knowledge Australia Solar Centre.

AliDKA is the first dataset worldwide to integrate First Nations seasonal information into solar forecasting and provides more than 465,000 data rows for model training and testing.

The findings are published in the IEEE Open Journal of the Computer Society.

For installers and system designers, the research points to a future where AI not only draws on satellite imagery and weather station feeds, but also embeds millennia-old ecological intelligence.

It is a model of how Indigenous knowledge can inform and strengthen renewable energy technologies, improving outcomes for both industry and communities.

Ancient seasonal knowledge is now helping refine the future of solar forecasting.

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ecogeneration

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