The 900-kilometre Project Energy Connect interconnector officially commenced operations on 1 October 2026. The new high-voltage link establishes a connection between South Australia and New South Wales. WattClarity stated the project is designed to enhance grid stability and renewable integration. WattClarity also published an initial look at the current testing schedule for the NSW1-SA1 interconnector.
The New South Wales Independent Planning Commission approved the Hunter Valley Operations Continuation project. The decision authorises the extraction of approximately 400 million tonnes of coal through 2050. The approval significantly extends the operational lifespan of the existing mining complex and represents the largest coal mine expansion ever proposed in the state.
The New South Wales government granted planning approval for a 125 MW and 1,000 MWh battery energy storage system. The facility will be located near Narrabri in the northern part of the state. The project is supported by a 14-year long-term energy service agreement awarded through AEMO.
The NEM average price reached $103.20/MWh, which was 90.9 per cent above the seven-day average. Queensland recorded 15.7 hours of negative prices and reached a minimum of -$176/MWh at 13:30. Victoria recorded the highest price of $270/MWh at 08:15. New South Wales recorded the demand peak of 8,905 MW at 18:35. Renewables generated 45.0 per cent of energy with an instantaneous peak of 72.8 per cent at 12:50.
Ampol Energy agreed to acquire Evie Networks for $225 million. The transaction will integrate 1,425 electric vehicle charging bays across 400 sites into the Ampol portfolio. The deal requires Australian Competition and Consumer Commission approval. The acquisition marks a full exit for foundation investor Trevor St Baker following a competitive auction process.
CleanCo Queensland reported a 40 per cent decline in average wholesale electricity prices for the 2025-2026 financial year. The state-owned corporation attributed the reduction to the rapid expansion of battery energy storage systems across Queensland.
Northern Grampians and Buloke Shire Councils officially withdrew from the Victoria to New South Wales Interconnector West Environment Effects Statement Technical Reference Group. The councils cited growing concern regarding the project.
Construction commenced on a $122 million infrastructure overhaul in the Northern Territory community of Mutitjulu. The project will replace deteriorating power, water and sewerage systems to modernise essential services for the remote Aboriginal township.
EORA Energy and the Tulla Group formed a joint venture to provide integrated energy management systems. The partnership will offer design and financing services for off-grid industrial projects facing grid constraints.
The New South Wales Community Energy Activation Program provided a funding boost to the Community Power Agency. The funds will support the Community Energy Incubator program. The Community Power Agency is one of 12 community and not-for-profit organisations receiving support.
The White Cliffs Solar Power Station in outback New South Wales received heritage listing. The 1980s-era experimental facility was recognised for its historical role as the first commercial solar plant in Australia.
WattClarity noted that the expansion of the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme eligibility from 100 kW to 1 MW went live on 1 October 2026. Grattan Institute energy director Alison Reeve argued Australian gas has shifted from a transition fuel to a sector in decline. Reeve stated that liquefied natural gas exports have peaked and urged government intervention to manage an industry contraction.
Natural gas prices fell 2.4 per cent to US$2.95/mmbtu.
AEMO opened consultation on the AEPC_2026_17 discussion paper with submissions closing on 28 October 2026. The AER called for submissions by 29 October 2026 on the Essential Energy cost pass through application relating to the 2025 North Coast Weather Event. AEMO published a Project Assessment Draft Report for maintaining reliability of supply at the Atherton Tablelands and Cairns areas, with submissions closing on 11 November 2026. AEMO released a Project Specification Consultation Report for the Thomastown Terminal capacity constraint, accepting submissions until 22 December 2026. The AER is assessing the Powerlink transmission revenue determination for the 2027 to 2032 period. The AER is also reviewing the AusNet Services transmission revenue proposal for the 2027 to 2032 regulatory period.
Jemena welcomed the AER approval of its 2026 to 2031 Electricity Pricing and Services Plan. Jemena stated the determination will strengthen its role in the energy transition while reducing distribution costs for customers. Endeavour Energy crews continued repair works following damaging gale-force winds, expecting to restore power to 90 per cent of impacted customers by 6 September. Transgrid submitted responses to the AEMC consultation paper on dispatch limits for inverter-based resources and the AER review of the standardised capital expenditure model consultation paper.