Should we worry about wasting renewable energy? Here’s why ‘spilling’ excess power is expected – and efficient

By Dylan McConnell, UNSW Sydney In Australia’s electricity system, more and more energy from sunlight and wind is being “spilled” – or not converted to electricity. In the last year, the amount of renewable energy spilled was roughly equivalent to the annual consumption of 750,000 typical households, or three months of consumption for the state…

BioPak to release Australian-first PHA-lined disposable cup range later this year

Plant-based product business BioPak has announced an upcoming range of compostable cups lined with polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) biopolymer, which it says is an Australian first. In a statement on Wednesday, the Bondi-based company said it was now first to market with a compostable packaging sector product: “a cup that truly aligns with the circular economy.” PHA…

Optiscan launches InVue device for on the spot pathology results

Microscopic imaging technology company Optiscan Imaging has revealed an innovative new medical imaging device, InVue, which is designed to enable precision surgery through real-time digital pathology. Manufactured in Melbourne in partnership with industrial design firm Design + Industry, InVue is a significant milestone for the company, traditionally known for its confocal microscope devices. Optiscan CEO…