The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) says there are unacceptably high fault levels in North Queensland.

The authority says the issue is hampering the operation of renewables projects in the region.

AEMO has formally declared a “system strength shortfall” in North Queensland at the 275kV node at the Ross substation.

The declaration means the transmission network service provider Powerlink is now obliged to ensure the fault is addressed.

AEMO has issued a deadline of 31 August 2021 for Powerlink to “ensure that the necessary system strength services to address the fault level shortfall are available.”

“System strength” refers to the ability to respond to disturbances in the system, managing fluctuations in voltage and frequency.

These fluctuations are particularly significant for generators connecting to the network through inverters, including solar generators.

The Haughton and Sun Metals solar farms near Townsville, and the Mt Emerald wind farm, could have their output curtailed completely, depending on network conditions and demands.

The Clean Energy Council has welcomed AEMO’s declaration of a “strength gap”.

“These renewable generators have been constrained through no fault of their own. As a result, the commercial returns of these projects are seriously impacted,” Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Kane Thornton said.

“It is critical that this issue is addressed quickly to ensure they can generate at full capacity to bring more low-cost generation to market.

“While renewable resources, particularly solar, have a strong future in North Queensland, these types of uncertainties render planning and investment in the region harder and less likely. Addressing system strength is vital to ensuring North Queensland remains an attractive location for future renewable energy generation.”