Australia is leading the world on PV generation, but risks losing its seat at the global solar table

Australia is often celebrated as a global solar success story.

We lead the world in rooftop solar uptake per capita, have some of the highest levels of distributed PV penetration globally, and are increasingly recognised for innovation in grid integration, solar buildings, and consumer-led energy transformation.

But few Australians realise that much of the international benchmarking, collaboration, and technical knowledge underpinning this reputation comes through Australia’s long-standing participation in two key programs that is now at risk.

Its membership of the International Energy Agency’s Photovoltaic Power Systems Program (IEA PVPS) and Solar Heating and Cooling Program (IEA SHC) are not symbolic.

The IEA Technology Collaboration Programs are global networks established to accelerate energy technology research, innovation, and commercialisation through international cooperation.