South Australia targets 100% renewable energy by 2027

In South Australia, a significant power outage occurred around 4pm due to supercell thunderstorms and destructive winds, which caused the collapse of transmission towers and tripped three major power lines. Despite this setback, the state has made remarkable progress in renewable energy, with periods where the entire state was powered solely by rooftop solar. On New Year’s Eve 2023, rooftop solar generated 101.7% of the state's energy needs for a brief period, setting a world record for a grid of that size. The South Australian government is now pursuing legislation to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2027, building on previous targets set by the Marshall Liberal government. Proposed amendments to the Climate Change Act include a 60% emissions reduction target by 2030 and a framework for achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This ambitious plan reflects a growing commitment to renewable energy and climate action in the state. Experts believe that South Australia’s approach could serve as a model for other regions, emphasizing the importance of political support and investment in technology. The state’s success is attributed not only to technical advancements in energy management and storage but also to a political climate that encourages renewable energy development. Dr. Susan Close, the deputy premier, highlighted the public's pride in the state's renewable initiatives and the need for a stable energy system. The current legislative efforts aim to protect the progress made against potential political shifts, reinforcing the idea that a transition to renewable energy can be replicated in other parts of Australia.