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Blackout risk: Grid ‘not ready’ for coal plant closures, solar surge
The Eraring coal plant closure threatens NSW grid stability due to delayed infrastructure; over 4 million rooftop solar systems add complexity, AEMO warns.
- As scheduled in 2027, AEMO warned Eraring's closure could trigger waves of outages, citing the plant's role in supplying about one quarter of NSW's electricity.
- AEMO chief executive Daniel Westerman said Australia’s coal-fired power fleet is ageing as "ten have retired since 2012," while rooftop solar owners in more than 4 million homes reduce system strength.
- Synchronous condensers are delayed, and Transgrid concedes timing risks as critical infrastructure is unlikely before "at least 2028," with AEMO warning it may intervene if market solutions lag.
- Such interventions risk higher costs for NSW consumers, AEMO warned, noting extra coal, gas or hydropower might be contracted to meet minimum system strength requirements.
- Amid a renewables rollout, policymakers are pushing batteries and condensers to stabilise the grid, with Daniel Westerman urging urgent investments and Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen highlighting more than 120,000 installations since June.
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A word of warning before Eraring and Yallourn closures
The Yallourn power station. Image: Stella/stock.adobe.comThe Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has provided words of wisdom as Australia transitions to a new-look energy grid. In releasing its 2025 Transition Plan for System Security, AEMO said […] The post A word of warning before Eraring and Yallourn closures appeared first on Energy Magazine.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources14
Leaning Left3Leaning Right4Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Right
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Right
50% Right
L 38%
12%
R 50%
Factuality
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