New data from global energy consultancy Rystad Energy shows that all Australian large-scale solar power plants generated 16. 2 TWh of clean energy in 2024, up from 15 TWh in 2023 with Queensland home to four of the top five best-performing utility PV assets for the year.
[PDF Version]
Read a variety of reports in our Knowledge Bank. Solar PV generated approximately 10 per cent of Australia's electricity in 2020-21, and is the fastest growing generation type in Australia. More than 30 per cent of Australian households now have rooftop solar PV, with a combined capacity exceeding 11 GW.
Installed Capacity: As of September 2024, Australia has over 3.92 million solar PV installations with a combined capacity of 37.8 GW. Contribution to Electricity Generation: In 2024, solar power accounted for 19.6% (or 46.7 TWh) of Australia's electrical energy production in the National Electricity Market and South West Interconnected System.
Australia has set a goal to reach 82% electricity generation from renewable sources by 2030. Solar energy will be key to achieving this goal by adding large-scale solar farms and rooftop solar systems.
How many solar farms are there in Australia?
Australia boasts one of the highest solar energy potentials globally, and large-scale solar farms have become integral to the nation's electricity supply. Current Snapshot of Solar Farms in Australia Installed Capacity: As of September 2024, Australia has over 3.92 million solar PV installations with a combined capacity of 37.8 GW.
The Australian government continues to support large-scale solar farm projects through funding, tax incentives, and policy initiatives. Key Government Initiatives Driving Growth Renewable Energy Target (RET): Aims to ensure 33,000 GWh of Australia's electricity comes from renewables by 2020.
What is Australia doing about solar energy?
The Solar Bank Initiative: The government has committed $1 billion to support the development of solar energy storage projects, enhancing the efficiency of solar farms. Carbon Reduction Commitments: Australia has pledged to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, making large-scale solar farms a critical component of this goal.