The State’s first Whole of System Plan is revealing a 20-year outlook on the future of the main electricity network — the South West Interconnected System (SWIS).
The plan models four scenarios detailing how changes in demand, technology, and the economy might shape the way electricity is used and guide the investments that might be made over the coming decades.
Minister for Energy, Bill Johnston said the modelling revealed that renewable generation was expected to triple by 2040, with a strong uptake in wind power and rooftop solar continuing to displace traditional forms of generation.
“Battery storage will also play a big part in our future, helping stabilise the system as well as unlocking new markets,” Mr Johnston said.
“Renewable energy sources, including the 300,000 households with rooftop solar, account for over 20 per cent of the annual electricity generated in the SWIS.”
He said the State had already announced a plan to construct Western Australia’s biggest battery and was currently in discussion with the Commonwealth Government regarding potential funding for the project.
“A decision will be made later this year,” the Minister said.
“Meanwhile, we are continuing to transform the energy landscape and this Whole of System Plan will play an integral part in the State’s transition towards a low carbon future.”
He said it was the most comprehensive modelling study ever undertaken into the future of WA’s electricity system and would support the transition to low-cost electricity.
The 125-page Whole of System Plan can be accessed at this PS News link.
