Renewables Reach Record Highs in Australia's Energy Grid as Coal Reliance Declines

Renewable energy supplied 46% of Australia's electricity in late 2024, but grid vulnerabilities and price spikes highlight challenges in the transition.

• Renewables accounted for 46% of Australia's energy mix in the final quarter of 2024, with coal's contribution falling below 50% for the first time.
• Rooftop solar generation increased by 18%, while grid-scale solar grew by 9%, setting new output records in the national energy market.
• Wholesale electricity prices rose 83% year-on-year in Q4 2024 due to coal plant outages, increased overnight demand, and transmission constraints.
• A heatwave in November drove record-high energy demand, prompting warnings to reduce appliance use and exposing grid vulnerabilities during peak periods.
• Debate over energy policy intensifies ahead of the federal election, with Labor advocating for renewables and transmission upgrades, while the Coalition promotes a coal-to-nuclear transition plan.

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Australian Broadcasting Corporation The Sydney Morning Herald The Guardian