AEMO Urges for ‘Emergency’ Authority to Disable Rooftop Solar Systems
With approximately 4 million solar rooftop systems, Australian regulators are now facing the challenge of excessive power generation.
The organization responsible for ensuring power supply across Australia’s largest power grids is urging for “emergency backstop” powers to regulate or shut down rooftop solar systems in extreme circumstances.
Close to 1.8 million Australian homes and businesses use solar power as part of the renewable energy boom supported by the government.
However, there are concerns about potential overgeneration of power through solar panels, overwhelming the national grid and causing blackouts and infrastructure damage.
Originally designed for power flow from large power stations through substations and power lines, Australia’s electricity system now deals with electricity from millions of rooftop solar systems flowing back into the grid, sometimes meeting half of the total demand in the National Electricity Market (NEM).
In a statement released on Dec. 2, Michael Gatt, the Executive General Manager of Operations at the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), highlighted “emerging risks” that his organization has been monitoring for several years.
The AEMO’s “Supporting Secure Operation with High Levels of Distributed Resources” report sheds light on the requirements for securely operating the NEM during periods of surplus solar energy supply surpassing demand.
AEMO supports the continued adoption of rooftop solar, residential batteries, and electric vehicles while ensuring reliable electricity support through a secure grid.
Solar Panel Growth Continues
According to the Australian Energy Council, solar installations are continually increasing nationwide, with New South Wales (NSW) and Queensland leading the way.
There are currently around 4 million rooftop systems installed nationwide, with NSW and Queensland holding the top spots in capacity.
Queensland leads in installations, with 1,015,589 reported installations in the first quarter of 2024, followed by NSW with 963,524 units.
