Australia To Export Solar Energy To Singapore

Australia To Export Solar Energy To Singapore

Australia has approved a unique solar and battery farm project, set to become the largest of its kind in the world. The $24 billion venture, led by tech billionaire Mike Cannon-Brookes, aims to export clean energy from Australia to Singapore. The project, named SunCable, will span Australia’s remote northern region and include a vast array of solar panels, batteries, and a subsea cable connecting to Singapore.

The Australian government has given the green light for environmental approvals, marking a significant milestone for SunCable. The project is expected to generate four gigawatts of energy, with two gigawatts allocated to Singapore, covering about 15% of the city-state’s energy needs by 2030. This move is anticipated to create 14,300 new jobs in northern Australia and position the country as a leader in green energy.

SunCable’s Managing Director, Cameron Garnsworthy, hailed the approval as a landmark moment. However, several approvals are still required from Singapore’s energy authorities, Indonesia’s government, and Australian Indigenous communities before the project can proceed further. Final investment decisions are targeted for 2027.

This ambitious project underscores the global race towards renewable energy, with China currently leading the charge. China has been rapidly expanding its wind and solar capacity, exemplified by its recent launch of the 3.5 gigawatt Midong solar farm.

Despite this progress, Australia faces challenges. It remains a major exporter of coal and gas, with renewables comprising 32% of its electricity generation in 2022. Environmental experts stress that Australia must accelerate its renewable investments to meet its 2050 net-zero target.

The SunCable project represents a step toward transforming Australia into a “clean energy powerhouse” and providing a model for international energy collaboration.

Other inter-state energy export projects 

Notwithstanding the latest plan of the transboundary sharing of power, several countries in the globe and Asia have tried such experiments. For example an Indian thermal power exports its power for its neighbouring country Bangladesh. Similarly, India also has transboundary energy sharing model with Bhutan. There are other such examples too. Several experts also opine that rather than building expensive off grid wind projects, energy sharing ties with coastal countries like India and Sri Lanka could also be another option to look upon.