TasNetworks has welcomed the draft Tasmanian Renewable Energy Action Plan (TREAP), released today by The Hon. Guy Barnett Minister for Energy.

The 20 year plan, which includes TasNetworks’ proposed second Bass Strait interconnector, Marinus Link, plots a clear path to ensure Tasmania can fully realise its potential to become the Battery of the Nation.

Underpinning the plan, is the target to double our state’s renewable generation capacity, with a target of 200 per cent renewable capacity by 2040.

“The Tasmanian Renewable Energy Action Plan is a clear signal of Tasmania’s ambition to be a renewable energy powerhouse – which will drive jobs and economic stimulus in Tasmania for generations to come,” TasNetworks’ CEO Lance Balcombe said.

“TasNetworks will continue to work with its owners, the Tasmanian Government, and all renewable energy proponents to ensure that Marinus Link is ready to deliver the low-cost, reliable and clean energy and storage that the National Electricity Market needs as it transitions to a renewable energy future.”

Mr Balcombe said Marinus Link, and the supporting transmission developments in Tasmania, provide benefits such as unlocking the State’s abundant renewable energy generation and deep storage potential.

“Marinus Link unlocks a pipeline of investment in renewable energy and long-duration energy storage with an estimated value of up to $5.7 billion and 2,350 jobs,” he said.

Marinus Link has progressed into the ‘Design and Approvals’ phase, thanks to $56 million in funding provided by the Australian Government, with an aim to be ‘shovel ready’ by the mid-2020s – an objective supported in the draft 2020 Integrated System Plan prepared by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

ENDS

Media contact

Dan Sinkovits | 0417 767 124
daniel.sinkovits@tasnetworks.com.au