A new study has demonstrated that electricity generation in Broome, Western Australia, can be achieved with over 80% renewable energy at three-quarters of the price of gas-fired (LNG) generation, resulting in total lifetime savings of $321 million. In summary:
• study shows that over 80% renewable energy in Broome achievable
• renewable energy is three-quarters the cost of LNG
• perfect opportunity for McGowan government to support transition to renewables.
The Clean Energy Study, by advocacy body Sustainable Energy Now (SEN), assessed the feasibility of shifting Broome's electricity generation to a renewable source.
The study's release comes at a time when Australia is increasing its efforts to transition to renewable energy, with a target of net-zero emissions by 2050. The WA Government has committed to reducing its own emissions by 80% by 2030.
Martin Pritchard introduces the Clean Energy Study, 13 March 2023
Dr Rob Phillips from SEN presented the study’s key findings in Broome on Monday, at a launch attended by more than sixty residents, industry representatives and community leaders.
Dr Rob Phillips said, “This plan will enable any landowner in Broome to install solar on their own rooftop. High penetration of renewables with batteries in the Kimberley will drastically reduce the amount of fuel required for generation, increasing resilience in flood events.”
The report was commissioned by the Kimberley’s peak conservation group Environs Kimberley and Lock the Gate and supported by Climate Action Network Australia. Environs Kimberley spokesperson Martin Pritchard said, "Broome has the potential to become a leader in renewable energy, and this study shows that the transition to a clean energy future is not only feasible but also cheaper.
“This is a perfect opportunity for the McGowan government to support the transition to renewables in Broome. It fits in perfectly with the State Government’s commitment to emissions reduction,” Mr Pritchard said.
There is an excellent opportunity to move from mostly gas to predominantly renewable energy generation at the conclusion of the existing LNG generation contract in 2027. This will be achieved by a mix of rooftop PV and solar farms, with substantial battery storage.
Read the Clean Energy Study here
Media contacts:
Dr Rob Phillips 0416065054
Martin Pritchard 0427548075
L- R Martin Pritchard, Environs Kimberley, and Dr Rob Phillips, SEN, at the launch of the Clean Energy Study, 13 March 2023
Banner: Broome Boulevard shopping centre solar panels - built by Broome based Gen OffGrid photo: Paul Bell
All other photos: Damian Kelly
Showing 1 reaction
Sign in with
Facebook