(AU) 100% Renewables feasible by 2030

[kristopher]

Renewable energy study tips viable reality by 2030
Date August 24, 2013

Peter Hannam
Carbon economy editor


Renewable energy such as wind, solar and hydro power could supply electricity at prices comparable to fossil fuels by 2030, according to a study commissioned by the federal government.

Modelling by the Australian Energy Market Operator shows that 100 per cent of power from clean energy would be technically viable by 2030 - although with a price tag ranging from $219 billion to $252 billion.

But a Community Summary of the report published this month without fanfare by the government has rekindled debate by stating that 100 per cent renewable power may cost no more than fossil fuels.

...

''It's kind of incredible that we haven't modelled (a 100 per cent goal) before now, given that the costs are basically the same,''...

...''We're exposed to rising carbon prices, we're exposed to rising gas prices,'' Dr Riesz said. ''What this is saying is, that for around the same price you can build 100 per cent renewable energy and completely protect yourselves from all of those risks.''

http://www.theage.com.au/business/carbon-economy/renewable-energy-study-tips-viable-reality-by-2030-20130823-2shby.html

[Blanks]

1. When it is taken into account...

just how much transportation goes into providing fuel (coal to coal plants, gasoline to gas stations etc.) and you factor in how many people could provide income for their household in the form of solar panels on their roof. Put more emphasis on locally grown food and stop mowing every blade of grass that's over 3" long (unless its done without external power).

It really isn't that unrealistic to get to 100% renewable. The sooner we start, the sooner we will get there.

[Nihil]

2. An argument that needs to be made in more countries ...

> ''We're exposed to rising carbon prices, we're exposed to rising gas prices,''
> Dr Riesz said. ''What this is saying is, that for around the same price you can build
> 100 per cent renewable energy and completely protect yourselves from all of those risks.''

The nearer you can get to 100% renewable, the lower your dependency on fossil fuels
and the less you are at risk from rising fossil fuel prices - and they *will* rise.

It works at the national level as well at the domestic/individual level.

[kristopher]

3. Yep. It's pretty standard item in the benefit column of most studies.

The lack of fuel cost means predictable energy prices in both directions - so it is usually expressed as "protects against energy price volatility". When presentations are made to the public it is good to find a way to say it that people can relate to, and you're right, that language does the job well.