Energy grid operator flags renewables boost: Greens
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) transmission network development plan released yesterday states the energy network can carry significantly more renewables, said Greens Energy spokesperson Adam Bandt MP.
The plan is also bullish about the growth in rooftop solar, energy storage and electric vehicles.
"This plan is a welcome shift from AEMO, who have finally faced the reality of the rapid transformation taking place in the electricity market because of solar and storage," Mr Bandt said.
"It’s clear that even without significant changes to energy rules and network investment, there will be a substantial growth in renewables as people shift to clean power."
"The government now needs to have a reality check. It will need to take stronger action to drive the growth in renewables, including changes to our energy rules to remove barriers and facilitate further investment in solar."
"The report also highlights challenges to transmission networks that will need to be addressed as the growth in renewables accelerates."
The Greens have previously secured a requirement for AEMO to model a pathway to 100 % renewable energy for the National Electricity Market.
Click here to download a copy of AEMO’s 2015 National Transmission Network Development Plan.
Media contact: Adam Pulford, 0429 109 054