Solar power systems could soon play an even greater role in the country's energy mix, following the release of a new report from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).
The Rooftop PV Information Paper predicted that the technology will grow in popularity and therefore become an important source of energy for Australians.
Figures show a significant rise in uptake over the past four years, with the total estimated installed capacity increasing from 23 MW in 2008 to 1,450 MW by the end of February 2012.
Looking to the future, AEMO thinks 5,100 MW worth of solar power systems could be in place by 2020.
Small-scale solar installations are in particularly high demand at the moment, the report noted, but commercial solar is still lagging behind other parts of the world.
However, there is no reason why we can't compete with the big guys, especially if there is an increase in the number of incentives available.
Germany is usually widely regarded as the king of solar power and while Australia still has some way to go before he is dethroned, it is not beyond the realms of possibility!
Posted by Mike Peacock