ACT launches renewables R&D strategy with focus on energy storage

The ACT government has unveiled a new plan to turn the Territory into a clean energy hub specialising in “next generation” renewables technologies like energy storage.

The Renewable Energy Industry Development Strategy, launched by ACT environment minister Simon Corbell on Friday, would use funds from existing ACT renewables initiatives to “facilitate the next generation of renewable energy technologies,” including a renewable energy precinct and test berth facilities.

Funds sourced would include the $1.2 million Renewable Energy Innovation Fund, developed as part of the ACT’s 200MW wind auction, Corbell said.

Corbell said the funds could also be used to provide competitive, project-specific grants or small-scale contracts to emerging ACT-based renewable energy businesses.

“The ACT Government sees renewable energy as a tremendous opportunity, not only in terms of playing our part to address climate change and bring renewable energy to the people of Canberra, but also to create jobs, and to build a stronger, more diverse and robust ACT economy,” he said.

“Through the 40MW solar and 200MW wind auctions, the ACT Government is on track to meet its target of achieving 90% renewable energy by 2020, and bring renewable energy to the people of Canberra at the lowest possible price,” Mr Corbell said.

“We have also helped position Canberra as a leader in the renewable energy sector and this strategy is designed to ensure that we continue to be a national leader in this sphere.

“There are significant economic benefits to be had from being early adopters and I want the ACT to benefit from the jobs and investment that a renewable  energy economy has to offer.”