ACT commits to 100% renewable energy by 2020

May 6, 2016
Issue 

The ACT Labor government has boosted its commitment to renewable energy still further, announcing Canberra will be fully powered by renewables by 2020.

The switch to renewable energy began with the decision in 2013 to fund three solar farms. Since then, it has held two wind auctions and signed 20-year contracts with four companies to buy energy for a guaranteed payment from wind farms in South Australia, Victoria and NSW.

Environment Minister Simon Corbell said Canberra was leading the nation on renewables, and reaping the benefits.

He said taking the extra step to 100% allowed Canberra to "take advantage of favourable market conditions to lock in great long-term prices", with renewable companies keen to secure long-term contracts.

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