Australia renewable energy generation hits record highs

Australia’s large-scale renewable energy assets reached a significant milestone in September, with utility-scale solar and wind power generating a total of 5.44 TWh. This represents a 7% increase compared to September of the previous year.

Record solar generation levels were reported in New South Wales (841 GWh), Queensland (645 GWh), and Victoria (267 GWh). Victoria also emerged as the leading state for combined renewable output, contributing 1.526 TWh through a mix of wind (1,250 GWh) and solar (276 GWh) assets.

Data indicates a decrease in solar curtailment within the National Electricity Market (NEM), falling from 26% in the previous year to 22%. During the same period, gas generation in the NEM fell to a new low of 455 GWh.

Top-performing solar facilities included Acen Australia’s 400 MW Stubbo Solar Farm, which achieved a 35% AC capacity factor. Other high-performing sites included the Columboola Solar Farm, owned by Hana Financial Investment, and the Edenvale Solar Park, co-owned by Eneos and Sojitz.