A coating so thin it’s invisible to the human eye has been shown to make copper nearly 100 times more resistant to corrosion, creating tremendous potential for metal protection even in harsh environments. [ + ]

ZEN Energy Systems has launched a world-first energy storage system that will enable customers to store and access power 24 hours a day.The Freedom Powerbank will use a computer-controlled battery storage system to capture energy produced from wind, solar or the grid during low-demand periods, allowing it to be re-used later. [ + ]

Two recent studies by IMS Research reveal strong global growth, but falling prices, in the PV sector. The research shows Australia is one of the five most attractive markets for microinverters and power optimisers. [ + ]

Master Electricians Australia (MEA) has urged Sydney contractors and tradies to remain diligent with electrical safety precautions following two separate incidents in one week where a man received burns to 90% of his body and another man died. [ + ]

Organised by the Australian Security Industry Association (ASIAL), the 2013 Australian Security Industry Awards for Excellence are Australia’s premier security awards program. Nominations are now open for individuals and organisations across nine separate categories. [ + ]

SunPower Corp has announced its investment in Diamond Energy, a privately owned alternative energy project developer and clean energy retailer based in Melbourne. [ + ]

Brightgreenʼs energy-efficient LED retrofit bulb, the DR700, has taken out the Premierʼs Sustainability Award in the Products or Services category, as well as the coveted Premierʼs Recognition Award. [ + ]

The mission of the Cleantech Open, which is now in its second year, is to find, fund and foster companies with big ideas that address today’s most urgent energy, environmental and economic challenges. [ + ]

Schneider Electric has launched PlantStruxure, its process automation technology that allows industrial and infrastructure companies to transparently connect field, process and enterprise levels within their business. [ + ]

A new trial electrical apprenticeship model will revolutionise the current system, according to the national Industry Skills Council, EE-Oz Training Standards.The pilot apprentice progression management system, announced by Skills Minister Chris Evans, will be run by the national Industry Skills Council (EE-Oz Training Standards). [ + ]

The Electrical Trades Union has criticised NSW Premier Barry O’Farrell’s suggestion to Julia Gillard that IR changes are key to reducing electricity costs. [ + ]

Nominations are now open for the ElectroComms Contracting Foundation’s 2012 post-apprenticeship scholarship program, which is designed to help individuals starting out in the electrical and communications industry to further their knowledge and career prospects. [ + ]

Philips Lighting will deliver energy-efficient lighting solutions to Jones Lang LaSalle clients through a global partnership platform designed to drive a sustainable transformation of energy use in commercial real estate markets. [ + ]

Locally produced energy is the key to reducing upgrade costs on Sydney’s “ageing and inefficient network”, according to Lord Mayor Clover Moore. [ + ]

Epuron has acquired the 1 MW Uterne solar power plant from SunPower. The project was financed by the Commonwealth Bank, making it the country’s first bank to support a solar project of this size. [ + ]