Photo credit: Pacific Hydro (MREP Crowlands Wind Farm)
You’ve heard of going 100% renewable but what about 500%? This is the ambitious new goal announced by the South Australian State Government on 16 December 2020 in their new Climate Change Action Plan.
Setting their sights on being a net exporter of clean energy
In their Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2025, South Australia have outlined that the state could become a nation leading exporter of renewable energy.
The State’s goal of moving to a “net zero emissions economy and a national and international exporter of clean energy could mean achieving a level of renewable energy that is more than 500% of the current local grid demand by 2050” according to the plan.
A measure over 100% indicates that more clean energy is being produced than is needed by the producer. This would lead to a surplus of energy for export or storage.
The South Australian State Government plans to utilise green hydrogen technology to supply not only the electricity needs of the state but enough to export to other parts of Australia and even to other countries. Tasmania has also set intentions of achieving 200% renewable energy by 2040.
Merri-bek already powered by 100% renewable energy
On 1 January 2019, Merri-bek City Council began purchasing all its electricity for Council operations from the Crowlands Wind Farm, 20 kms north-east of Ararat in north-west Victoria as part of the Melbourne Renewable Energy Project. This includes all street lights, Council buildings, public barbecues, and electric cars. As a result, Council is now powered by 100% home-grown renewable energy and has reduced its emissions by 70% since 2011.
The wind farm will supply all of Merri-bek Council’s electricity for the next 10 years under a group power purchasing agreement. It provides long-term price certainty, enabling Council to mitigate the risk of increased energy costs in a volatile market for its operations.
Clean energy options for your home or business
Help Merri-bek reach 100% renewable energy by 2040 by taking action today. Merri-bek residents can access free energy advice, apply for subsidised upgrades (eligibility criteria applies) or if you’re a business, you can apply for finance to help you purchase and install energy efficient systems. Visit our Energy Switch page for more information on current initiatives.
