Australia set a record in 2022, with renewables accounting for 36% of its electricity. Solar power, in particular, made up 15% and is on the rise. However, the stability of the power grid is a concern due to weather-related fluctuations. New research looks at how climate change will affect solar power reliability in Australia. It predicts that some areas in the east will have less variability in solar power, while some western regions may face longer periods with little or no power. Overall, solar power’s future looks good, especially in areas with existing solar farms.
How does solar growth affect grid stability?
The electricity grid in Australia sources power from coal, gas, solar, wind, and more. Unlike fossil fuel stations, renewables’ output fluctuates with local weather conditions, like sunlight for solar power. Weather-related variations can disrupt the balance between power supply and demand, causing voltage fluctuations and blackouts. Electrical equipment operates within specific frequency and voltage limits; exceeding them can damage equipment. On a larger scale, voltage changes or unstable frequency can trigger safety mechanisms, leading to grid portions going offline, resulting in blackouts. Maintaining grid stability with variable renewables is a key challenge for energy systems.
How does climate change affect solar output?
Using climate model projections for a high emissions scenario, solar resource availability in most of Australia is predicted to increase by up to 1% by 2099. Extractable solar power duration is expected to rise by up to 30 minutes per year in the east, enhancing reliability. Conversely, lull periods with minimal power generation will decrease in the east by around 25 minutes per year, primarily due to an increase in clear-sky days.
A less sunny outlook for world’s largest solar farm
Sun Cable, developing the world’s largest solar farm in Northern Territory, faces challenges due to reduced radiation and more variable power generation by 2099. Energy storage and voltage control strategies will be crucial to address intermittency issues.