The Northern Territory has announced its plan to boost renewable energy through community consultations for the Remote Power System Strategy (RPSS).
Introduced by the Territory Labor Government, the RPSS is a key component of the government’s commitment to achieving a 50 per cent renewable energy target by 2030.
The strategy aims to have 70 per cent of electricity consumed in 72 Indigenous Essential Services (IES)-serviced communities sourced from renewables by 2030.
The consultations, involving Land Councils, Regional Government Councils, Local Aboriginal Corporations, and relevant stakeholders, will facilitate discussions on the aspirations and necessary support for implementing the RPSS.
Benefits of the RPSS include a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, lower noise levels, and improved electricity supply reliability in communities with more modern power systems.
The shift is also expected to create opportunities for employment, contracting, and operations within community-based Aboriginal organisations, businesses, and corporations.
Minister for Renewable Energy Kate Worden highlighted the government’s commitment to the RPSS as a significant step in the Northern Territory’s transition to renewable energy.
“The Northern Territory is progressing toward a future where renewable energy plays a greater role in our energy consumption,” Worden said.
“We are working towards our target of net zero emissions by 2050, and this strategy will be instrumental in achieving that goal.”
The consultation process will involve close collaboration with regional and remote Aboriginal organisations, businesses, and corporations to align the RPSS with community aspirations and ensure successful implementation.
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