As leaders in the solar industry, we are thrilled to share some of the exciting advancements in solar efficiency and renewable energy.
In this guide to the future of solar energy, we’ll explain some of the innovations that are shaping the solar industry, including emerging technology, advancements, and new energy storage solutions.
The Current State of Solar Energy
Australia’s Solar Boom – Trends and Adoption Rates
Both residential and commercial solar applications are fast growing in Australia. This is evidenced by the over 3.7 million Australian homes and small businesses that have already installed rooftop solar panels.
Here are some of the developments that are leading the way in Australia’s solar adoption and commitment to clean energy:
- Australia reached a record high for solar energy generation in 2024
- Solar power accounted for approximately 25% of Australia’s electricity in October 2024 (this milestone marks the first time solar energy generated a quarter of the nation’s power)
- Rooftop solar accounted for over 11% of Australia’s total energy generation during the first half of 2024
- Nearly 30,000 battery units were sold in the first half of 2024
- New South Wales is the second state to exceed one million rooftop PV installations
Sources: The Clean Energy Council’s Rooftop Solar and Storage Report and Ember Energy Global Electricity Review 2024
Advances in Solar Affordability
With significant cost reductions in recent years, investing in solar technology is more affordable than ever. Many cost-effective strategies are helping to bring solar technology into more homes.
In 2023, the prices of solar panels dropped by 50% compared to the previous year.
Common solar financing options include:
- Solar leasing
- Power purchase agreements (PPAs)
- Solar loans and green loans
- Government incentives and rebates
At Aust Energy Solar, our goal is to make residential solar installation as affordable and attainable as possible. We offer solar financing and also provide help accessing government rebates and incentives.
Government Support and Renewable Energy Targets
The Australian government has been an excellent supporter of Australia’s solar boom. To encourage Australians to adopt solar technology, the Australian government offers WA residents various incentives and Feed-in Tariffs (FiTs).
Western Australian residents can take advantage of various incentives, including Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs).
Learn more about government support for solar energy and available incentives here:
- Solar Rebate WA
- Sydney and NSW Solar Rebate
- Queensland Solar Rebate – Are You Eligible?
- South Australia Solar Rebate – Are You Eligible?
Emerging Innovations Shaping the Future of Solar Energy
Now that we’ve covered the current state of solar energy, we’ll explore “What is the future of solar energy?”.
Here are some of the innovations in the solar industry that we are most excited about:
- Thin-Film Solar Panels – The vast majority of solar cells still feature first-generation technology. Silicon thin-film solar cell technologies are a promising new technology that features a variety of benefits. Thin-film solar cells can enable cost-effective, large-scale manufacturing processes, reduce waste, and offer high durability — all with a non-toxic crystalline silicon material.
- Building-Integrated Photovoltaics – Solar in Architecture: Imagine a future where solar panels are integrated right into a home’s architectural design. With the development of solar photovoltaic technology for building integration, this future may not be far off.
- Solar Roads and Smart Grids – Next Generation Infrastructures – The potential of solar roadways is one of the future possibilities we are most excited about. Solar roadways could transform plain asphalt roads into surfaces that generate renewable energy.
Solving the Energy Storage Challenge
Better Batteries for Better Storage – What’s Changing?
Although it is a clean, renewable source of energy, solar power is more difficult to store than oil, gas, or coal.
The solar industry relies on solar storage batteries but more efficient methods are being researched. Lithium-ion batteries are widely used but new technologies and storage methods are in development.
Solar Energy Storage Solutions for Homes and Businesses
Along with residential solar energy storage solutions, we offer comprehensive commercial solar packages.
Overcoming Intermittency – Making Solar Reliable 24/7
Since solar energy is dependent on environmental factors, it does have limitations. Continued technological improvements aim to address intermittency and efficiency issues.
While there is a lot to be done in this area, here are some of the efforts being made:
- The development of smart grids;
- Predictive maintenance
- Optimised energy production using weather data
- Personalised solar solutions based on energy usage patterns
Benefits of Solar Energy in the Years Ahead
Environmental Impact – Reducing Carbon Footprints
Solar power offers a variety of environmentally friendly advantages, including:
- Reduction in greenhouse gas emissions
- Reduction in reliance on fossil fuels
- Harnesses a renewable energy source by taking advantage of the endless supply of light energy from the sun
- Reduced water consumption compared to traditional power plants
- Reduced noise pollution
- Reduced land consumption by taking advantage of roof installation
- Reduced need for long-distance energy transportation
Learn more about the environmental benefits of solar energy here: Are Solar Panels Environmentally Friendly? – Aus Energy Solar.
Economic Advantages – Cost Savings and Growth Opportunities
Integrating solar panel systems into communities can offer various economic advantages, including cost savings and growth opportunities.
Empowering Communities – Jobs and Local Sustainability
The expanding solar industry demands skilled labour and additional workers, creating local jobs. Adopting solar technology can also empower communities to continue moving forward toward a more sustainable future.
Addressing the Challenges of Solar Energy
Efficiency Limits – Closing the Technology Gap
Continued efforts are being made in the solar industry to maximise efficiency and counteract limitations. From better solar batteries to longer lasting panels to grid improvements, we expect to see noticeable improvements in solar efficiency over the next several years.
Recycling Solar Panels – A Sustainability Priority
Another area we are excited to see the changes in the solar industry is the disposal and recycling process. We’ve long known that this area needed an overhaul. With a focus on developing and using non-toxic solar cells and researching recycling methods, we look forward to positive changes in the solar panel recycling process.
Grid Integration – Building Smarter Energy Networks
Grid integration is the process of incorporating solar power into the electrical grid. New technologies are emerging that aim to add solar energy to the grid with maximum efficiency, security, and reliability.
What Is the Future of Solar Energy in Australia?
Australia’s Solar Potential – The Road Ahead
With ample sunshine and an ideal climate for generating solar energy, Australia is quickly moving to a more sustainable future. Australia is expected to hit 100% renewable energy by the end of 2032.
How Aus Energy Solar is Leading the Way
Our mission at Aus Energy Solar is to drive strong and positive environmental impacts through solar energy and sustainable resources. We do this by offering affordable, customised solar packages featuring solar panels, inverters, and battery storage.
We are committed to leading the way toward a more sustainable future for Australia and our planet.
Is Solar Power the Future of Energy?
How Solar Compares to Other Renewables
Solar energy has a variety of advantages compared to other renewable energy sources, such as hydropower and wind.
- Versatility: Solar is considered more versatile as they can be installed almost anywhere there is enough sunlight. Solar energy can also be used for individual homes or large-scale projects to meet a vast range of power generation needs.
- Initial Investment: Solar panels have relatively low setup costs compared to other renewable energy sources.
- Environmental impact: Solar energy is one of the cleanest renewable energy options.
- Maintenance: Solar panels are low maintenance, especially compared to other renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines.
Solar’s Role in Australia’s Renewable Energy Goals
Perth’s ample sunshine is perfectly suited to taking advantage of renewable solar energy. Throughout Perth, a variety of measures are in progress to move toward Australia’s renewable energy goals, including:
- The Perth Zoo boasts the biggest solar PV site in Perth and is projected to generate over 120,000 kWh of clean energy each year.
- The City of Perth Pier Street Carpark Solar Project features 256 solar panels to generate over half the carpark’s energy requirements.
- Collie’s battery expansion makes WA home to the nation’s biggest power grid.
- Sustainable Energy Now promotes renewable energy sources and raises awareness about renewable energy technologies. Sustainable Energy Now places a strong focus on WA’s main electrical grid.
Learn more about the role of solar in WA’s Green Energy future in our article here: Solar incentives in Perth and WA
The Path to a Net-Zero Future
We’re excited about the recent advancements in the local solar energy industry, including WA’s extensive commitment to a net-zero future.
Net-zero future is a goal that focuses on sustainability, reduced carbon emissions, reduced energy bills, and decreased reliance on fossil fuels. The Western Australian Climate Policy is working to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.
The Western Australian Climate Policy has implemented a number of practical measures to move toward a net-zero future.
Powering the Future with Solar Energy
Is solar power the future of energy? At Aus Energy Solar, we believe the answer is a clear “yes”! With a strong movement toward greener energy and significant increases in affordability, now is an excellent time to invest in solar panels.
With Aus Energy Solar, you can enjoy high-quality solar panels designed for durability and peak performance. Partner with Aus Energy Solar and begin your transition to a greener, more sustainable future today.
Contact our team today for expert advice and a personalised solar solution that fits your energy needs. Let’s start your journey towards a greener, more sustainable future! Visit Aus Energy Solar to learn more.
