Water sector on track for 100 per cent renewables

THE STATE’S water corporations are on track to run entirely on renewable electricity by the end of the year, cutting emissions and lowering costs.

Water Minister Gayle Tierney said all 18 water corporations were on schedule to switch to 100 per cent renewables by the end of 2025 and reach net-zero emissions by 2035. More than half have brought that target forward to 2030.

“Our water sector is leading the way towards a cleaner future, showing consumers and industry that we can tackle

climate change and boost renewable energy use as our population grows,” Ms Tierney said.

“It is pleasing to see all our water corporations are on track to power all of their operations with renewable electricity this year – a major step towards achieving net-zero by 2035.”

So far, switching to renewables has cut water sector emissions by 42 per cent — the same as taking about 136,000 cars off the road.

Locally, Barwon Water has already made the switch to 100 per cent renewable electricity and is using solar, wind and innovative waste-to-energy projects to help reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2030.

Twelve water corporations have also joined forces through Zero Emissions Water to buy cheaper power from the Kiamal Solar Farm.

Climate Action Minister Lily D’Ambrosio said the switch to renewables was helping keep energy bills down for government agencies and families.

“Thanks to our investment in renewable energy, Victoria has the lowest energy prices in the market, supporting government agencies, local businesses and families cut their energy bills,” she said.

The transition comes as the State Electricity Commission signs new retail contracts to supply all Victorian government operations with renewable electricity.