ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Australia's Renewable Energy Surplus: Free Electricity and the End of the Central European Summer

other · 2026-08-03

Australia is experiencing a surplus of renewable energy, leading to instances of free electricity. This development is part of a broader trend in the country's energy transition, known as the Energiewende. The article highlights the impact of climate change on Central European summers, which are becoming increasingly characterized by tropical nights, heat damage, and heavy rainfall. The author argues that current norms and regulations are outdated, and politics is failing to address the necessary changes. The piece underscores the urgency of adapting to new climate realities and the potential of renewable energy to reshape energy markets.

Key facts

  • Australia is giving away renewable energy due to surplus.
  • The article discusses the success of renewables in Australia.
  • Central European summers are changing due to climate change.
  • Tropical nights, heat damage, and heavy rainfall are signs of climate change.
  • Current norms and regulations are outdated.
  • Politics is not addressing the necessary changes.
  • The article is published in 'der Freitag'.
  • The author is Jörg Schmilewski.

Entities

Institutions

  • der Freitag

Locations

  • Australia
  • Central Europe

Sources