The Tasmanian Government has welcomed the development of a Smart Grid for the State, with State Minister for Climate Change, Cassy O’Conner, saying it will assist in the delivery of an efficient, effective and clean way in delivering electricity using the latest information technologies available.

 

The Smart Grid is an electricity network designed to deliver electricity from suppliers to households using digital technology similar to that found in the 3G phone network. The Smart Grid is expected to reduce network costs, making power prices more affordable, and increasing the reliability of the power supply.

 

"Investment in a Smart Grid will transform our electrical system into a modern network that empowers electricity suppliers to better manage peak load issues, manage a range of solar, wind and hydro generation going into the power grid, and attract new low emissions industries," Ms O’Connor said.

 

"Smart Grid technology also has the benefit of providing real-time information to householders and small businesses, and other power users, so that they can manage their energy use within their budget."

 

Ms O'Connor said that a Tasmanian Smart Grid will ensure our electricity system can:

  • support new renewable generation technologies safely;
  • integrate a range of renewable energy into the grid for maximum benefit both technically and from a cost perspective;
  • reduce the operating cost of the grid and avoiding expensive new investments in power stations and other grid expansions;
  • cap electricity costs to ensure energy is affordable for the consumers; and
  • put people in charge of their own energy costs allowing them to use their power most effectively

 

"Development and investment in a Tasmanian Smart Grid will optimise our capacity as a renewable energy island, and enable us to attract "low emissions" but "energy intensive" industries such as data centres, better support uptake of household renewables and distributed generation, and to empower consumers to take control of their power bills," MS O’Connor said.