NEM Fossil generation failure in the 2017 heatwaves

During the February 2017 heatwave across south eastern Australia, 14% of fossil generating capacity (3,600 MW) failed during critical peak demand periods in South Australia, New South Wales and Queensland as a result of faults, largely related to the heat.

Comparative energy technology costs

• Electricity from new wind and solar plants is now cheaper than from existing gas plants.
• Electricity from wind is cheaper than coal or gas, even with additional “firming” costs that ensure its availability 24/7.
• Solar thermal is cheaper than gas peaking plants for flexible dispatchable generation.