On 18 August 2024, Queensland also hit a record low energy use of 3,096 MW at 1:00 PM. At that time, solar panels were providing 55% of the power. Energy demand in Queensland has been dropping by about 250 MW per year and is expected to continue decreasing.

Energy Use Limits

These limits will change over time as the power system develops, and as AEMO improves its ability to predict and manage energy demand. Queensland needs to send extra power to other regions if demand is too low. 2,800 MW in extreme cases, 1,500 MW under normal conditions. These numbers are based on the minimum energy needed to keep important power plants running. If some power plants shut down for maintenance, the required minimum energy level could increase.

The power system needs to be balanced. If demand drops too much, energy must be sent to other regions to keep the system stable. Ongoing studies are working to improve this process.

It shows how much electricity demand is expected to drop and compares it to the safe limits

In late 2024, Queensland might use less electricity than the safe limit, which means backup power might be needed to keep the system stable, especially if it is disconnected from the rest of Australia. By 2025, even more backup power—over 600 MW—might be required.

How much backup power does Queensland need?

In October 2023, only a small amount of backup power was needed. By October 2024, the need for backup power is expected to be about 119 MW. By October 2025, this could rise to 643 MW.

The Energex and Ergon Energy Networks can reduce the power generated by some solar and wind farms when necessary. Right now, around 25 MW of solar and 150 MW of other types of energy can be controlled. Also, since February 2023, new solar systems over 10 kVA must have a device that allows their output to be controlled remotely.

However, most small solar systems don’t have this control, and larger ones often don’t follow the rules correctly. Only 16% of these systems are set up properly. This means there isn’t enough control over solar power when it’s needed.

How much backup power is available?

By October 2025, the amount of backup power that can be controlled depends on how well people follow the rules. If nothing changes, about 86 MW will be available. If new laws are made and followed, this could increase to 341 MW. However, since the required amount is 643 MW, there could still be a shortage of 127 MW to 382 MW.

Without enough backup power, if Queensland gets disconnected from the rest of the power grid and has low electricity demand, it could face a power system failure.

What needs to be done?

The Queensland Government should make sure all new solar systems, even smaller ones, have backup control devices. They should also look at ways to upgrade old systems so they can be controlled. The Energex and Ergon Energy Networks should work on improving control systems and making sure everyone follows the rules.

Powerlink should study how to manage electricity flow better, especially when demand is low. AEMO should review safety limits and update its procedures to make sure the power grid stays secure.