Information
Australia has approved a substantial A$20 billion solar energy project called SunCable, aimed at powering both local homes and supplying energy to Singapore via a pioneering 4,300-kilometer undersea cable. This ambitious project, touted as the largest solar precinct globally, was announced by Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek. It is expected to have the capacity to supply energy to three million homes using solar panels, batteries, and the extensive cable system. This initiative positions Australia as a potential leader in global green energy, emphasizing the country’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy footprint.
The SunCable project is strategically located in the Northern Territory, a region renowned for its high solar exposure, covering an area of 12,000 hectares. With substantial backing from tech mogul and environmental advocate Mike Cannon-Brookes, the project plans to generate six gigawatts of energy per hour, allocating four gigawatts for domestic use and two gigawatts for export to Singapore. SunCable’s development is now moving towards detailed planning and financial decision-making, with a target to finalize investments by 2027. This development comes at a time when renewable sources account for 32% of Australia’s total electricity generation, showcasing a gradual shift from traditional coal power, which still represents 47% of the nation’s energy production.
Source: AFP, Reuters
So what
This project makes sense; Australia has one of the main things that Singapore doesn’t have: space. While it is only possible that this project will be successful, if it is, you will likely see it recreated for other nations in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia. A similar project in Morocco has been hampered by disputes over technology but seems on track to become effective. Sadly, though, these projects have significant human rights concerns, particularly around the manufacturing of solar panels and large batteries.
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