The Age this morning reported that solar panels are slowing down electricity price rises…  

The Age this morning reported that solar panel and energy efficiency schemes are slowing down electricity price rises, following on from a similar story in the AFR yesterday. The piece quotes new research from the Renewable Energy Certificate Agents Association which found that over half the 3.2 per cent drop in electricity consumption over three years to 2011 can be attributed to solar PV, solar hot water systems and energy savings programs in Vic and NSW. The report also suggests that no new baseload power plants will be needed over the next decade, thanks to these energy savings.