The construction boom in large-scale solar farms and wind projects in Australia appears to have hit a significant road hump, with new rules imposed by the Australian Energy Market Operator causing delays, and in some cases adding costs and technology reviews, for project developers.

A new poll shows most Australians think renewable electricity and home battery storage is key to affordable, reliable energy.

The Australian Energy Market Operator has released a more bleak outlook for potential gas shortfalls in Australia’s domestic market, but said they could be much worse if renewable energy projects are delayed or one of Australia’s ageing coal units fails.

Queensland’s Western Downs solar boom continued this week, with the approval of a 250 MW solar farm west of Toowoomba.