- Servicing Queensland since 2010
Renewable Energy In Australia: History & Future Development
February 9, 2023
Renewable energy has been a key focus for Australia in recent years, with an increasing number of individuals, businesses and the government looking to make the transition from traditional, non-renewable sources of energy to cleaner, more sustainable alternatives. One of the most prominent of these alternatives is solar power, which has a rich history in Australia and holds great potential for the future.
In this blog, we will delve into the history of solar power in Australia, as well as its current state and future developments. Whether you’re an individual looking to make your property eco-friendlier, or a business looking to reduce energy costs, this article is sure to provide valuable insights.
Table of Contents
Historical Development Of Solar Power In Australia
The early adoption and growth of solar power in Australia can be traced back to the 1970s, when the country experienced a significant oil crisis. This led to a greater focus on renewable energy sources, and solar power soon became a key player in the transition to a greener energy future.
One of the key milestones in the history of solar power in Australia was the introduction of government rebates and incentives in the early 2000s, which helped to encourage widespread adoption of the technology.
In more recent years, advances in technology and increasing concerns over the impact of climate change have led to a renewed focus on solar power, with the country now boasting one of the largest solar panels installations in the world.
Current State Of Solar Power In Australia
The current state of solar power in Australia is quite strong, with the country being one of the leading adopters of this clean and renewable energy source.
2020 alone saw a total solar power increase of over 12 GW—showing the use of solar energy is becoming increasingly common among homes and businesses, as they are looking for a more sustainable and cost-effective energy source.
Solar power offers several advantages over traditional energy sources, including:
- Lower energy costs
- Reduced carbon footprint
- Increased energy independence
- Increased security, as homeowners and businesses become less reliant on traditional energy grids and more self-sufficient
However, despite the many benefits of solar power, there are still several challenges that need to be addressed in order to continue its growth and development in Australia. One of the main challenges is the need for greater investment in infrastructure and technology, which is essential for the continued growth of the industry.
Additionally, there are still entry barriers in place for smaller players in the market, which can limit competition and prevent the industry from reaching its full potential.
Future Development Of Solar/Renewable Energy In Australia
The future of solar and renewable energy in Australia is extremely promising, with the government showing a strong commitment to developing the industry. This is evident in the numerous initiatives and policies aimed at boosting growth and supporting renewable energy sources.
The government’s focus on funding research and development of renewable energy technologies will not only advance the current state of technology, but will also create new high-tech jobs, further driving the industry’s growth.
Advances in technology and innovation are expected to have a significant impact on the future of renewable energy in Australia. For instance:
- The development of advanced battery storage systems will provide consumers with the ability to store and use the excess energy generated by their solar panels, reducing their dependence on the traditional energy grid.
- The introduction of smart grid systems allows for a more efficient and effective distribution of energy.
Furthermore, the increasing popularity of renewable energy and the growing awareness of the importance of reducing carbon emissions will likely result in increased demand for solar and renewable energy sources. This, in turn, will drive growth and investment in the sector, and will help to further solidify Australia’s position as a leader in renewable energy.
By embracing this change and investing in the future, individuals, businesses and the government can help to ensure that Australia remains at the forefront of renewable energy development for years to come.
Don’t Be Left Behind
The history of solar power in Australia is rich and varied, with technology playing an increasingly important role in the country’s transition to a greener energy future.
With the current state of solar power in Australia offering several advantages and opportunities, and with the future looking bright, it’s an exciting time to be involved in this dynamic and innovative industry.
At Apollo Solar, we are dedicated to helping individuals and businesses make the most of this exciting and rapidly evolving sector.
If you’re looking to harness the power of the sun, be sure to get in touch with us via our contact or instant quote forms. Or call us today at our Brisbane (07) 3177 3385, Townsville (07) 4725 3888 or Forster (02) 6557 2993 locations for more information on solar and how it can benefit your future.