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Articles on Solar panels

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Western Australia’s largest private solar array covers the roof of this food distribution centre in Perth’s south. AAP Image/Bidvest

Five things the east coast can learn from WA about energy

Despite its name, the National Electricity Market doesn’t reach WA. But those charged with guiding the eastern states’ energy transition should look west once in a while.
This array in Indiana is one of a growing number of “community solar gardens” in the US. Robford15/Wikimedia Commons

Why we need an ‘energy Landcare’ to tackle rising power prices

Without help, lower-income people could miss out on the clean energy revolution – hence the arrival of community projects aiming to boost access to solar panels, batteries and other green technology.
Thinking of going solar? Prices are approaching the cost of grid electricity, but only in some places – so far. joncallas/flickr

When will rooftop solar be cheaper than the grid? Here’s a map

When will residential solar be cheaper than the cost of power from the grid? This point of ‘grid parity’ is a moving target but moving closer in a number of places.
Australia has 1.4 million solar rooftops. But it is with the addition of battery storage that energy grids will really be revolutionised. AAP Image/Lukas Coch

Malcolm Turnbull wants to embrace ‘disruptive technology’ – he can start with solar power storage

New prime minister Malcolm Turnbull has stressed the importance of embracing ‘disruptive’ technologies that shake up existing business models. Solar power and battery storage is one of the most enticing options.
A new Grattan Institute report suggests solar panels in Australia might be more trouble than they are worth. Duncan Rowalinson/Flickr

Given the value of emissions cuts, solar subsidies are worth it

The Grattan Institute has reported that the costs of solar panels have outweighed the benefits by almost A$10 billion in Australia. But the real benefits of cutting greenhouse emissions are much larger.
Batteries to store excess solar power will be a game-changer. But energy-efficient appliances will mean you can use a smaller battery. AAP Image/Raoul Wegat,file

Energy storage is crucial, but it’s not the only piece in the puzzle

The unveiling of Tesla’s Powerwall home battery has been hailed as a huge moment in renewable energy. But don’t forget the other innovations that can help you use that stored power more efficiently.

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