Archived News for Energy Sector Professionals - August, 2011
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has released an issues paper into solar feed-in tariffs as part of its review into the Solar Bonus Scheme, which was closed to new participants on July 1st.
The paper finds that the generosity of the subsidies and the higher than expected uptake of solar PV have resulted in much higher than anticipated costs to governments and electricity retailers. These higher costs have contributed to the recent rises in electricity prices from 1 July 2011 and increased the burden on taxpayers.
In light of these costs, the NSW Government closed the Solar Bonus Scheme to new participants on 1 July 2011.
ERAWA warns against higher prices due to renewable energy incentives
A report has been released by the Economic Regulation Authority of Western Australia which finds that the electricity market in the South West of Western Australia is at a cross-road and warns against higher power prices due to renewable energy incentives.
Greenhouse Gas Inventory update released
The Federal Government has released the Australia's National Greenhouse Gas Inventory: Update report which provides estimates of Australia's national greenhouse gas inventory based on the latest available data and the accounting rules that apply for the Kyoto Protocol.
Carbon price could cut more emissions than expected
Australia could achieve significantly greater than expected emissions reductions by 2020 if the Federal Government passes it successfully implements its carbon package, according to research conducted by environmental think-tank ClimateWorks Australia.
Hays launches major projects job website
International recruitment specialist Hays has launched its major project jobs website where jobseekers can view positions in major oil, gas, resources and mining and energy and construction projects in Western Australia.
WA Government to retain 16 per cent domestic gas reservation
The Western Australian Government will retain its 16 per cent domestic gas reservation requirement for all gas projects, and implement measures to improve transparency in the gas market.
Carbon Energy succesfully trials syngas electricity generation
Brisbane-based Carbon Energy Limited has announced that it has achieved electricity generation using syngas produced through its unique process of Underground Coal Gasification (UCG).
Origin finalises Australia Pacific LNG deal with Sinopec
Origin Energy has completed the subscription agreement facilitating the acquisition by Sinopec of a 15% ownership interest in Australia Pacific LNG Pty Ltd in Gladstone, Queensland.
Ocean energy technology tested and ready for sea trials
Ocean energy company, BioPower Systems, has completed testing of its full-scale O-Drive power conversion module, successfully delivering stable power to the grid over extended periods with a high level of efficiency. The technology will now be used in a pilot demonstration off the Port Fairy coastline in western Victoria.
Applications open for Emerging Renewables program
The Australian Government has called for applications for its $126 million Emerging Renewables program established to support promising renewable energy technology projects such as geothermal, solar and ocean.
Geothermal projects fail to attract funding
Four geothermal companies have been forced to return Federal Government funding due to inability to attract matching private sector funds for the grants.
Xstrata halts uranium attempts
Xstrata has announced it will halt its attempts to break into the uranium market, blaming hostile attitudes and a highly competitive local market.
AER makes draft determination on Victorian smart meter costs and charges
The Australian Energy Regulator has issued its draft determination on the Victorian distribution network service providers (DNSPs) Advanced Metering Infrastructure (‘smart meter’) budgets and charges for 2012 to 2015.
Queensland energy companies call for apprentices
Two Queensland state-owned energy organisations are offering apprenticeships to meet workforce needs in the sector.
Industry Consultation on the draft GEMS Bill commences
The latest phase in the development of national legislation for Greenhouse and Energy Minimum Standards (GEMS) has begun with the commencement of industry consultation on the draft GEMS Bill.
WA halts new installation subsidies and draws fire from industry
Western Australian Energy Minister Peter Collier has announced that the state’s feed in tariff installation quota has been met and the program will be suspended for new connections.
Uranium uncertainty in NSW
The New South Wales Government has denied allegations of plans to lift the state’s ban on uranium mining and exploration, despite the state Opposition and Greens claiming the State Government would readily change its stance.
Queensland solidifies LNG position
Queensland has moved to strengthen its position as an emergent liquefied natural gas (LNG) export hub after the proponents of the Australia Pacific Liquefied Natural Gas (APLNG) project have made their final investment decision.
Tequila plant found to be efficient biofuel
Large scale farms of the agave plant used to make the drink tequila could be established in Australia's arid inland as a solution to transport fuel problems, a University of Sydney academic has found.
Contract signed for Mackay bagasse power plant
Mackay Sugar has appointed local company G&S Engineering to erect the plant and major machinery for its $120 million Cogeneration Project.