SA1 experienced high renewable penetration of 90.9% during the 21:35–22:00 UTC period on 21 September 2026, driven primarily by strong wind generation (1055.68 MW) and significant solar contribution (312.34 MW combined). Regional electricity prices fluctuated between $57.19 and $85.44/MWh across the five-minute settlements, with a notable price drop to $57.19/MWh at 22:00 UTC.
The high renewable penetration was directly supported by substantial wind output and continued solar generation during evening hours, reducing reliance on thermal generation to minimal levels (GAS_CCGT at 131.87 MW and OCGT near zero). The binding constraint F_T+RREG_0050 with marginal values of $2.91–$3.91/MWh indicates that a regional or system constraint was active in limiting additional output, likely moderating price upside despite high renewable supply and supporting the volatility observed in the five-minute RRP track.
Causal analysis generated by gridIQ's synthesis model from live AEMO market data: dispatch prices, generation mix, interconnector flows and market notices in the interval surrounding the event.