Latest national grid plan released: Marinus essential to Australia’s future

Marinus Link has again been classified as critical to achieving Net Zero in a final report released today by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

The final 2024 Integrated System Plan (ISP), which provides the optimal plan for meeting Australia’s future energy needs, shows Marinus Link remains part of the lowest-cost pathway to a net zero economy.

Marinus Link CEO, Caroline Wykamp, proudly welcomed AEMO’s final 2024 ISP.

“In consecutive updates to this national grid plan, Marinus continues to feature as ‘actionable’ and ‘urgent’,” Ms Wykamp said.

“The ISP calls for large increases in energy storage to ensure energy security and reliability, which Marinus Link will be key to delivering.”

“Marinus Link unlocks Tasmania’s massive hydropower storage capacity, approximately 30,000 times the Victoria Big Battery.”

The report notes actionable projects must be delivered urgently to provide the best outcomes in energy security, reliability and affordability for homes and businesses.

According to the ISP, up to 90% of the NEM’s coal-fired power stations are projected to retire before 2035, and the entire fleet before 2040.

With coal retiring, renewable energy connected with transmission and distribution, firmed with storage, and backed up by gas-powered generation is the lowest-cost way to supply electricity to homes and businesses as Australia transitions to a net zero economy.

“After AEMO’s thorough engagement process including expert submissions and consumer feedback, Marinus has again been recognised as key to Australia’s clean energy future,” Ms Wykamp said.

AEMO is responsible for operating Australia’s NEM in the best interests of Australian energy consumers.

Read AEMO’s 2024 Integrated System Plan – www.aemo.com.au/energy-systems/major-publications/integrated-system-plan-isp/2024-integrated-system-plan-isp