From advances in electric vehicles to major crises that affected the energy network, 2019 was a was a big year for the energy industry. There was a continued focus on renewable energy generation, advances in technology in the sector as well as creating a sustainable future energy network.
Here we look back at five of 2019’s most read news stories.
5. Victoria’s first electric bus hits the road
Late in 2019, Victoria’s first fully electric, locally built public bus began its maiden trial along one of Melbourne’s busiest routes.
The trial, which will continue until January 2021, will provide passengers with a smoother, more sustainable ride and will be reviewed to determine the potential to roll out fully electric buses across Victoria.
4. Chargefox reveals EV charging locations for major network
In September, Chargefox revealed the proposed locations for 22 charging stations in the first phase of its ultra-rapid electric vehicle (EV) charging network.
The first phase includes 22 stations connecting Adelaide, Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane, with additional sites in Western Australia and Tasmania. All ultra-rapid stations will be powered by 100 per cent renewable energy.
3. AusNet Services appoints new Managing Director
The Board of AusNet Services appointed a new Managing Director to replace retiring MD Nino Ficca in late May.
Tony Narvaez, former CEO of Endeavour Energy, took over the role on 1 November 2019.
2. Major explosion at Mortlake Power Station
On Monday 8 July, an explosion at the gas-fired Mortlake Power Station in Victoria caused significant damage to a generator, taking the plant out of operation.
The explosion was caused by an electrical fault and damaged one of its two generating units at around.
In early December it was revealed the return to service date for the Mortlake Power Station generating unit had been delayed until 30 December 2019, heightening the risk of energy shortages during the crucial Christmas period.
1. Contractors selected for Snowy Hydro 2.0
In January, Snowy Hydro appointed its preferred contractors for the Snowy 2.0 project, following an extensive competitive tender processes that lasted 18 months.
The official green-light for the project was given in February with the Government committing up to $1.38 billion in an equity investment for the project.
