Tasmania’s renewable energy status is being challenged by “historically dry” dam levels, with recent data showing that a third of the state’s energy came from coal or gas last month.
Figures indicate that between June 13 and July 11, 32% of the state’s energy consumption came from coal and gas sources, including imports via the Basslink interconnector.
Hydro power accounted for 58% of the energy mix during this period, wind energy 8% and rooftop solar 1%.
The state’s largest hydro storage at Lake Gordon is currently 25 metres below full capacity, a significant drop from the levels seen during the energy crisis in March 2016.
Speaking at the Tamar Valley Power Station, recently turned on for the first time in five years, Labor’s energy and renewables spokesperson Janie Finlay said the state is “struggling to provide” enough energy for residents, businesses and industries.
She said the power station is currently supplying 20% of the island’s energy needs “just to keep the lights on”.
“We’re generating around 989 megawatts of power in Tasmania right now today, but we need about 1,300, so we’re 25% undercooked in energy generation,” Finlay said.
“The reality is we’re burning gas, we’re importing dirty, shandied coal fired energy from the land and Tasmanians deserve better.”
Finlay warned that the energy shortage is acting as a “closed for business” sign for the state, jeopardising Tasmania’s clean energy reputation, harming the economy and costing thousands of jobs.
“We can no longer hide behind the simple phrases of self-sufficient and 100% renewable,” Finlay said.
“We are not. We need to be truthful and honest about that so we can actually do what is necessary to bring on new renewable energy generation for the future.”
Energy Minister Nick Duigan acknowledged that hydro dam storages are being carefully managed to navigate the dry period.
“I think this is a really critical time to recognise [that] we need more on-island generation in Tasmania,” he said.
“Our economy has grown and we need more power and we need an approvals pathway that’s fit for purpose.”
Duigan said the Renewable Energy Approvals Process (REAP) legislation is being introduced to address this.
He also called out opponents of the government’s renewable energy agenda, asking if they want Tasmania to burn more fossil fuel or remain the renewable energy powerhouse it has been for 100 years.
“We are unashamed about our large renewable energy generation agenda. We want new renewables on island and we want them quickly,” he said.
