Australian homes and business installed more renewable energy capacity in 2017 than ever before.
According to the Clean Energy Regulator’s Small-Scale Renewable Energy Scheme data, more than 1057 megawatts was installed last year, mostly from rooftop solar, and this number is expected to reach over 1070 megawatts.
This equates to 3.5 million solar panels being fixed to Australian rooftops, or more than 9500 installed every day.
There was also a preference for larger capacity systems in 2017 as reducing costs made these more attractive. The average solar system capacity has doubled in the five years since 2012, from three to six kilowatts.
Clean Energy Regulator Executive General Manager Mark Williamson says the increasing interest in renewables is good news for reducing carbon emissions.
"We are seeing a wide cross-section of Australians – households, community centres, schools, and small businesses – receiving incentives under the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme."
"Our data shows consumers are embracing renewable energy to take control of their electricity bills."
In 2017, there was a 41 per cent increase in installed renewable energy capacity across all states and territories compared to 2016. Queensland led the way with installed capacity at 295 megawatts, with the Australian Capital Territory taking top place for biggest annual increase, up 57 per cent.
"The data collected by the Clean Energy Regulator in 2017 reflects the industry is going from strength to strength. It looks like 2018 will be another big year for the solar industry," Mr Williamson said.
Small-scale renewable energy record year infographic
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About the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme
The Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme creates a financial incentive for individuals and small businesses to install eligible small-scale renewable energy systems such as solar panel systems, small-scale wind systems, small-scale hydro systems, solar water heaters and air source heat pumps. Learn more about the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.