Australia hits quarterly solar generation record as Q1 demand surges in 2026

In Q1 2026, grid-scale solar generation in Australia rose by 648 MW from the same period in 2025, reaching an all-time quarterly high of 2,706 MW, according to figures released by Australian authorities.

Electric demand in Australia reached 25 GW in the first quarter of 2026, driven by extreme heat and a surge in data centers. The demand level reflects hot conditions and growing data-center activity contributing to higher electricity use.

The expansion of battery storage contributed to a roughly 12% drop in wholesale electricity prices versus 2025, highlighting how storage capacity is influencing wholesale market dynamics.