Electricity usage tends to occupy the minds of Australians mainly when they receive their bills or face blackouts. However, discussions surrounding net-zero emissions prompt a critical examination of where Australians derive their power from. The method of power generation is often dictated by the most accessible and cost-effective resources available in each state.
In New South Wales (NSW), coal continues to dominate, accounting for 69% of the power supply, primarily from black coal sourced within the state. Renewable sources like solar and wind provide 12% each, with hydro contributing 4% and gas 3%. Notably, during particular times of day, rooftop solar can significantly impact overall electricity generation, especially on sunny days.
Victoria, while utilising slightly less coal than NSW, primarily depends on brown coal, which is less efficient and more polluting. Currently, 62% of its energy comes from brown coal, with wind (25%), hydro (5%), solar (4%), and gas (2%) forming the remainder. There is potential for further expansion of wind energy in Victoria, though offshore wind installations face substantial costs.
In Queensland, fossil fuel reliance is highest of all the states, with 72% of power generated from black coal and 7% from gas. Solar and wind make up 11% and 6%, respectively, while hydro is at 3%. This state’s coal plants, largely owned by the state government, remain operational despite economic pressures.
South Australia stands out with wind energy producing over 60% of its power, a remarkable feat driven by supportive policies and investments in renewable energy. The state also relies on gas (28%) and smaller contributions from solar (8%) and batteries (2%).
Tasmania boasts an impressive 77% of its electricity generated from hydroelectric sources, utilising the abundant dam infrastructure in its mountainous terrain, with wind accounting for an additional 21%. The state’s minimal reliance on gas (2%) reflects a unique advantage in its renewable capacities.
In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), the aim is 100% renewable energy; however, much power is sourced externally from surrounding wind farms. By contrast, the Northern Territory has a more fragmented energy system, heavily reliant on gas (over 80%) with less than 10% from renewables.
Western Australia showcases a blend of energy sources with natural gas (31%) and coal (28%) playing significant roles, alongside a growing contribution from wind (17%) and solar (over 20%), particularly from rooftop installations.
As each state approaches the challenge of transitioning towards a renewable energy future, their strategies vary widely, driven by local resources and political landscapes, laying the groundwork for Australia’s energy landscape in the coming years.