Is solar power a backbone of Australia's green energy transformation?

Around lunchtime each day, when the Sun is shining brightest, solar production will peak at close to half of Australia's power needs. Often there is so much in the system, power becomes worthless. Energy experts and economists plotting Australia's green energy transformation see solar as a generation backbone, along with wind and hydropower.

Is Australia over-abundance of solar a problem?

At the heart of the concerns about Australia's occasional over-abundance of solar is a technical phenomenon known as minimum demand. The term refers to the demand for power from the grid. Necessarily, it excludes the demand that is met by rooftop solar panels — so-called behind-the-meter sources of supply that are provided by customers themselves.

Does Adelaide have rooftop solar power?

At times, more rooftop solar power is being produced in Adelaide than the city can use. (ABC News: Che Chorley) In South Australia, for example, rooftop solar was periodically supplying more than 100 per cent of the state's demand, with surpluses being exported to other states.

What is Australia's $1 billion solar project?

$1 billion has been set aside to offer financial support to anyone who can produce solar panels and other components in Australia. The government is still working out the exact structure and design of the scheme, but it is expected to largely work through production tax credits.

Can Australia build its own solar industry?

Twenty years ago China built a solar manufacturing industry on the back of Australian innovation. Now, as Australia tries to build a solar industry of its own, it needs assistance from China. And the minister argues Australia can benefit from cheap imports, and develop its own premium industry, at the same time.

Can Australian solar panels compete on quality over price?

Richard Pettersson says Australian solar panels can compete on quality over price. (ABC News: David Frearson) A consultation paper put out by ARENA, the government agency managing the scheme, spells out the challenge facing the Australian industry.