Solar energy, wind power use in South Australia leading the world

SOUTH Australia’s renewable energy market has hit new heights, according to a report released today that claims our solar and wind generation is leading the world.

SOUTH Australia’s renewable energy market has hit new heights, according to a report released today that claims our solar and wind generation is leading the world.

The figures show South Australia has the highest proportion of homes with a solar system in the world.

Almost a third of homes have installed panels.

In a boost for Labor’s re-election campaign, the monthly Renewable Energy Index found solar energy accounts for 8 per cent of the state’s total electricity generation – equal best with Italy.

The report, published today and funded by left-leaning activist group GetUp!, showed that last month, renewable energy produced almost half of the state’s power.

The index, which compares renewable markets across the world using data from various regulators, found in SA wind accounted for 38 per cent use and rooftop solar 10 per cent. Nationally, less than a fifth of energy is supplied by renewable sources. The report also calculates job numbers and any power savings.

Labor, and Premier Jay Weatherill, have staked their political futures on increasing renewable energy targets amid several announcements during the first week of the campaign.

But the Liberals argue sourcing 75 per cent of energy from renewables by 2025 is condemning local households to higher power prices. The Opposition has pledged to scrap the target. The Federal Government has also been critical of the policies.

Asked whether it was a politically motivated report, GetUp! campaigns director, Sam Regester, said: “I would encourage anyone throughout South Australia to look at the numbers.”

He said SA had the potential to be a renewable energy “superpower”.