The McGowan Government will conduct a fast-tracked assessment of new and existing demand for renewable energy for the South West Interconnected System (SWIS), the State’s main electricity network.
In a statement, the WA Government said the process will assist the Government to understand future demand for low-emissions electricity supply on the SWIS, as an increasing number of industries and businesses seek to decarbonise through electrification.
An interim assessment will be conducted prior to the next Whole of System Plan which is required by 2025.
The SWIS Demand Assessment will collect data from the industry on the size, location, and timeframe of anticipated electricity demand through 2030 and beyond.
“This assessment of renewable energy demand will be an essential tool in achieving a smooth and orderly transition towards net zero by 2050. As the world decarbonises, it’s important we give local businesses the certainty and stability they need in order to support WA jobs,” Premier and Treasurer Mark McGowan said.
According to the Government, the Treasury-led task force membership will include the Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Energy Policy WA, the Department of Jobs, Tourism, Science and Innovation, and Western Power.
The gathered information will be used to inform the electricity Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategies through a coordinated stakeholder engagement process.
Energy Minister Bill Johnston said Western Power’s network will be the backbone that supports decarbonisation in the southwest of Western Australia, helping connect industry to renewable energy sources.
“Industry has told us they need to decarbonise quickly and I’m pleased to explore how the network could support their ambition through the expedited SWIS Demand Assessment,” Minister Johnston stated.
The SWIS starts north in Kalbarri, runs through Perth down to Albany in the south and extends to Kalgoorlie in the east, according to the State Government.
