Australia prides itself on being a world leader in household solar but until now we have not fully appreciated the safety risks.
Are solar panel fires on the rise and, if so, what can we do about it?
Everyday Australians are building their own renewables projects, and you can too
Community renewables are the ideal way to generate local investment, build stronger rural economies and ensure the benefits of the energy transition are shared by all.
Net zero energy buildings: How to design whole communities that give as much as they take
To speed the transition to zero carbon emissions, the world must think bigger and focus on designing or redeveloping entire communities that are zero energy.
How “zombie” solar cells could power indoor devices without sunlight
UK researchers are working on a new type of smart solar cell that can adapt to the amount of available light, meaning it can work indoors.
How some home builders mislead consumers about energy ratings
A study of the websites of Australia’s largest-volume home builders has revealed how they explain energy efficiency to potential buyers. Here’s what it found.
How microgrids can keep the power on when disaster hits
Bushfires, storms and floods regularly leave thousands of Australian homes and businesses without power. So how can we build a better, more resilient – and more climate friendly – system?
Australia still doing bare minimum on new-build home energy efficiency
Australia is still building four in every five new houses to no more than the minimum energy standard – and that’s well short of optimal for environmental, economic and social outcomes.
The hidden energy cost of smart homes
One of the great hopes of the second digital revolution is that “the internet of things” will help households save energy. But research from Australia and the UK is revealing ways the IOT might also increase energy demand.
Solar hot water giving you cold showers? Eight tips to warm you up
It is likely that households are not getting the most from their solar hot water systems. So how can you get the most out of your solar hot water system?
