Victoria’s energy to be 95 per cent renewable by 2035

Victoria will soon be almost completely reliant on renewable energy under an ambitious plan announced by Premier Daniel Andrews.

Victoria’s energy network is set to undergo a mammoth transformation that will result in a 95 per cent reliance on renewables by 2035.

The change was confirmed by Premier Daniel Andrews on Thursday morning in an election promise that includes a new 2030 renewables goal of 65 per cent.

A state zero emissions target will be brought forward to 2045 under the plan.

“Big energy companies want to offshore profits – we want to offshore wind,” Mr Andrews said.

“Renewable energy is the future; it’s good for our climate, good for lower power bills and good for jobs.”

Victoria would aim to reduce its emissions by 75 to 80 per cent by 2030, Mr Andrews said.

Premier Daniel Andrews has announced a new plan for Victoria’s energy future. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Nicki Connolly

The State Electricity Commission will return to public ownership, with taxpayers having a 51 per cent stake.

Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said Victoria would continue to provide other states with electricity supply despite the changes.

“Victoria has always been the country’s powerhouse when it comes to the production of electricity,” she said.

“We continue to be the biggest net exporter to the rest of the country. That will continue to be the case.”

An initial $1bn pledge will deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power through renewable projects if the government is re-elected.

The scheme is planned to make up for energy lost by the closure of power station Loy Yang A in 2035.

Originally published as Victoria’s energy to be 95 per cent renewable by 2035