South Australia is on track to meet its 100% net renewables goal by 2027, backed by federal funding for new wind, solar, and battery storage projects. The support ensures reliable and affordable clean energy for households and businesses while cementing the state’s global leadership in renewable energy.
South Australia, Australia’s fourth-largest state at 983,000 square kilometers and home to around 1.8 million people, has taken another major step toward clean energy leadership. The state received federal funding under the Renewable Energy Transformation Agreement to speed up its target of 100% net renewable electricity by 2027, making it the first non-hydro grid in the world to reach this level.
The agreement provides support for at least 1 gigawatt of new wind and solar generation—enough to power roughly 700,000 homes—and 400 megawatts of battery storage, which could supply electricity to around 280,000 homes for an hour during peak demand. These projects, combined with the upcoming Project Energy Connect transmission link to neighbouring New South Wales, will help South Australia balance electricity supply and demand while achieving its 100% net renewables goal.
South Australia already leads the world in renewable electricity adoption. Over the past year, wind and solar supplied around 70% of the state’s electricity—a level unmatched by any large grid without hydroelectric power. Reaching 100% net renewables means that the total annual output of wind, solar, and stored energy will equal the state’s electricity consumption, even though imports, exports, and occasional gas generation will continue to play a minor balancing role.
Premier Peter Malinauskas emphasized that the 100% net renewables goal is essential not only for combating climate change but also for creating jobs, attracting investment, and proving that a modern economy can run reliably on wind, solar, and storage. The target, originally set for 2030, was moved forward three years thanks to rapid technological progress and strong political support. Malinauskas described it as “a turning point for energy independence and climate responsibility.”
Federal Climate and Energy Minister Chris Bowen announced the new funding in Port Augusta, a city that once relied on coal but is now transforming into a renewable energy hub. South Australia hasn’t connected new wind or solar farms to the grid in the past two years, but that’s about to change with large-scale projects like the 412-megawatt Goyder South wind farm and multiple battery installations at Blyth, Hallett, Clements Gap, Templers, and Tailem Bend. Together, these will strengthen grid stability and further advance the 100% net renewables goal.
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The state’s clean energy transition doesn’t stop there. In Whyalla, construction is underway on the world’s first green hydrogen power plant, which will include a 250-megawatt electrolyser and hydrogen storage facility. This project will allow hydrogen to serve as both a fuel and an energy storage medium, adding flexibility to the grid. Renewable expansion has already begun to attract industrial interest, with over 2 gigawatts of new energy demand from companies seeking reliable, low-emission power.
The new Project Energy Connect transmission link will also play a crucial role. By connecting South Australia with New South Wales, the line will allow excess renewable electricity to be exported to the east coast market and enable imports when supply dips. Battery storage systems across the state will further smooth fluctuations in wind and solar output, ensuring consistent reliability.
South Australia’s renewable energy boom is creating thousands of local jobs in construction, installation, maintenance, and engineering. While gas will remain a backup for rare supply gaps, its role will continue to decline as renewable and storage capacity grow. The state’s greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation are expected to be almost completely eliminated within the next few years—an outcome that directly supports Australia’s national climate goals.
The success of South Australia’s approach has drawn international attention. Energy experts see it as a real-world example that high renewable penetration is technically and economically viable on a large grid. The combination of government support, private investment, and public acceptance has created the conditions for lasting change.
By 2027, South Australia’s 100% net renewable energy goal could become a global benchmark, demonstrating that the shift to clean energy can enhance reliability, lower costs, and create economic opportunities. The state’s achievement demonstrates that the transition to a carbon-free power system is not just possible—it’s already underway.
