Record-breaking Solar and Rooftop PV in NEM

A Record-Breaking Week for Solar and Rooftop PV Generation in the National Electricity Market

The past week witnessed unprecedented solar and rooftop PV generation achievements across the National Electricity Market (NEM), with southern regions like Tasmania, South Australia, and Victoria setting new performance standards.

An outstanding milestone was reached as NEM Solar and Rooftop PV generation surpassed 20,000 MW for the first time, underscoring Australia’s progress in renewable energy and emphasising the importance of preparing for a resilient NEM in the future.

Key Highlights of the Record-Breaking Week:

1. On Sunday 8th December 2024 at 11:35 hrs, the Maximum Instantaneous NEM Solar and Rooftop PV Generation peaked at 20,173.8 MW, exceeding the previous record of 19,773.7 MW set on Monday 2nd December 2024 at 11:20 hrs by 400.1 MW.

2. At 12:15 hrs on Sunday 8th December 2024, the Maximum Instantaneous Vic Rooftop PV Share reached 67.8%, a 0.89% increase from the previous record of 66.9% set on Saturday 12th October 2024 at 13:00 hrs.

3. On Wednesday 4th December 2024 at 12:30 hrs, the Maximum Instantaneous Vic Solar and Rooftop PV Generation peaked at 3,664.6 MW, marking a 115.95 MW increase from the previous record of 3,548.6 MW set on Wednesday 20th November 2024 at 11:30 hrs.

4. At 12:00 hrs on Wednesday 4th December 2024, the Maximum Instantaneous Tas Solar and Rooftop PV Generation reached 252.5 MW, surpassing the previous record of 239.7 MW set on Monday 11th November 2024 at 12:30 hrs by 12.72 MW.

5. During the same period on Wednesday 4th December 2024 at 12:35 hrs, the Maximum Instantaneous Tas Rooftop PV Share rose to 23.4%, a 2.41% increase from the previous record of 21.0% set on Friday 12th April 2024 at 11:30 hrs.

6. Also on Wednesday 4th December 2024, at 12:45 hrs, the Maximum Instantaneous SA Solar and Rooftop PV Generation increased to 2,414.2 MW, surpassing the previous record of 2,318.4 MW set on Thursday 14th November 2024 at 13:00 hrs by 95.77 MW.

7. Lastly, on Wednesday 4th December 2024 at 13:00 hrs, the Maximum Instantaneous SA Rooftop PV Generation reached 1,847.3 MW, exceeding the previous record of 1,845.0 MW set on Tuesday 19th November 2024 at 13:00 hrs by 2.3 MW.

The surge in Solar and Rooftop PV generation underscores the necessity for grid adaptability and precise forecasting. Given that rooftop PV output relies on numerous individual systems, accurate solar forecasting becomes imperative.

Utilising tools that consider weather conditions, temperature variations, and cloud cover enables the grid to adjust by modifying loads, deploying batteries, and increasing flexible generation during solar output fluctuations. This approach aids in mitigating power imbalances and enhancing grid stability.

Enhancing Flexibility on a Large Scale

To address these fluctuations, solutions driven by incentives will play a crucial role:

– Dynamic Pricing: Real-time electricity costs incentivise shifting energy consumption to peak solar periods.

– Demand Response Programmes: Consumers receive compensation for reducing energy usage during low solar output and reserves.

– Smart Appliances & Home Energy Management Systems: These devices autonomously regulate energy consumption.

– Virtual Power Plants (VPPs): VPPs consolidate batteries and flexible loads to function akin to traditional power plants.

These achievements underscore the expanding role of solar energy. The forthcoming challenge lies in ensuring that demand-side flexibility and energy storage keep pace with the escalating solar generation while upholding a secure and reliable grid.

Geoff Eldridge, an energy market analyst at Global Power Energy, provides insights into these developments.