Responding to unprecedented forecast electricity demand growth in South Australia, ElectraNet has released a Transmission Annual Planning Report (TAPR) Update.
ElectraNet’s TAPR Update provides updated electricity supply and demand forecasts including details of the transmission network development options necessary to respond to the rapid energy transformation.
ElectraNet Chief Executive Officer, Simon Emms, said South Australia continues to lead the clean energy transition and is experiencing rapid transformation of the demand and supply of electricity.
“Transmission infrastructure remains the foundation of the transition to 100 per cent renewables. To ensure the infrastructure is available when required, now is the time to commence assessing the feasibility of further strategic investments to meet the state’s forecast clean energy needs,” Simon said.
“As the South Australian economy continues the transition to a clean energy future, ElectraNet is witnessing a level of interest from large new and diverse electricity loads not seen in half a century.
“We are experiencing an unprecedented level of enquiries and applications from renewable energy generators, battery providers and customers wanting to connect to the grid to access and provide low emission electricity.
“The load enquiries total almost 2,000 megawatts of new demand, which is massive, relative to the state’s current maximum electricity demand level of approximately 3,300 megawatts.
“Electrification of the state’s economy, new large industrial loads and the hydrogen sector are the key drivers of these high demand growth forecasts.
“To respond to the need for more electricity, ElectraNet is consulting on options to expand the transmission network to support the forecast demand growth in South Australia, including potential developments in the Mid-North, South East and Eyre Peninsula.
“South Australia is expected to reach 100 per cent net renewables before the State Government’s 2030 target date and this is attracting international interest from businesses seeking to invest in a net-zero emissions economy.
“Timely and efficient development of the transmission network is critical to ensure customers continue to receive secure, reliable and affordable power supply into the future,” Simon said.
ElectraNet is seeking feedback from interested stakeholders in our planning for the network. Before projects get the green light, they are subject to the Australian Energy Regulator’s comprehensive approval process and are required to demonstrate net benefits to power customers.
Feedback on the updated TAPR can be submitted to consultation@electranet.com.au by 30 June 2023 and the updated TAPR can be downloaded here.
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