Clean Energy Regulator: Australia’s Clean Energy Transition ‘Accelerating’ as Q2 Records Tumble

Australia recorded its strongest quarter on record for rooftop solar installations, household battery storage uptake and large-scale solar investment in Q2 2026, according to the Clean Energy Regulator (CER).

More than 1GW of rooftop solar was installed during the quarter, surpassing the previous quarterly record of 942MW. Large-scale solar investment also reached a new high, with 1.8GW of solar capacity reaching final investment decision (FID).

The residential battery market saw particularly strong growth. More than 111,000 battery installations, representing 3.6GWh of storage capacity, were approved during Q2. The surge was supported by Australia’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program and falling battery costs.

Large-scale projects including the 690MW Turner River Solar Hub, Guthrie’s Gap and Smoky Creek solar projects, and the 281MW Lower Wonga Solar Farm reached FID during the quarter, further demonstrating strong investor activity in the Australian solar market.

Renewable energy accounted for approximately 42% of total generation in the National Electricity Market (NEM) during Q2, up from 37% a year earlier. Solar and wind both increased their share, while coal and gas generation declined.

The CER’s latest figures highlight the accelerating role of solar and battery storage in Australia’s energy transition, as the country continues to expand renewable generation and strengthen grid flexibility.