Victorian network business AusNet is celebrating the milestone of connecting 10GW of renewable energy to the National Electricity Market (NEM).
AusNet’s work has spanned grassroots community projects in regional towns to high-voltage transmission connections powering cutting-edge data centres in metropolitan Melbourne.
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AusNet CEO David Smales said, “Reaching this milestone is about more than just connecting electrons. It shows what’s possible when communities, industry and governments unite with purpose to transform Australia’s energy future.
“From a 54MW wind farm at Salt Creek to the towering turbines of the 1.3GW Golden Plains Wind Farm, the largest in the southern hemisphere, AusNet’s 46 renewable connection projects have helped drive one of the most profound energy transformations in the country’s history.”
In 2015, renewables made up just 15% of the energy mix, with hydro dominating and solar and wind still emerging as players. Today, renewables contribute over 43% to the grid, reaching 78% on peak days.
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“With the rise of electric vehicles, AI powered data centres and other technologies, the energy transition is well underway,” Smales said.
We are proud to play our part in building an energy system that serves Australia today and is ready for whatever tomorrow demands.”
