Australia’s Renewables Hit Record 76.4% of Main Grid Demand

Australia’s Renewable Energy Surges to New Record High

On Monday afternoon, Australia’s primary electricity grid achieved a remarkable milestone, with renewable energy sources accounting for a record 76.4 per cent of electricity demand. This new high surpasses the previous record of 75.9 per cent set last November, indicating a promising trend for the upcoming spring season.

The record was reached at precisely 12.05 pm, with renewables generating a total of 21,917 megawatts (MW). Rooftop solar was the standout contributor, supplying over half of the demand at 12,532 MW, which represents 43.7 per cent. Wind energy followed with 8,074 MW, making up 30.6 per cent, while large-scale solar contributed 4,549 MW (15.9 per cent) and hydroelectric power added 616 MW, or 2.1 per cent.

Coal and Gas Contributions

In contrast, coal-fired power plants generated only 7,033 MW, accounting for 24.5 per cent of the total demand, while gas contributed a mere 207 MW, or 0.7 per cent. These figures were compiled from data provided by Geoff Eldridge from GPE NEMLog.

Interestingly, the share of renewables could have been even higher—potentially reaching 93.5 per cent—if not for the curtailment of 4,879 MW of capacity, primarily due to economic factors. At the same time, Australia’s expanding network of large batteries was absorbing 1,340 MW of capacity.

Spring’s Ideal Conditions for Renewables

Spring is typically a favourable season for renewable energy production, as the weather conditions are conducive to both wind and solar generation, coupled with lower electricity demand. Recently, South Australia’s advanced renewable grid recorded a new peak of wind energy at 147 per cent of demand early on Saturday morning. However, curtailment of wind and solar energy across the main grid also reached a new high on Sunday afternoon.

There have been instances where the potential for renewable energy has exceeded 100 per cent of overall demand on Australia’s main grid. However, achieving an actual share of 100 per cent remains a challenge without enhanced storage solutions, improved transmission infrastructure, and engineering advancements to ensure grid security. This includes the implementation of synchronous condensers and battery grid-forming inverters.

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