Tasmania’s renewable energy generation is set to slump to 66% by 2030, down from a near 100% in recent years, according to a new national report released today.

The State of the Transition report, commissioned by Australia’s conservation councils, highlights key steps for governments to deliver a fast and fair energy transition.

An increasing demand for electricity in Tasmania, combined with slow build rates for new renewable energy infrastructure, has meant the state is ‘not on track’ to meet its legislated renewable energy target in 2030 according to the report.

The report found that Tasmania had the lowest installed rooftop solar PV capacity. The report recommends that Tasmania considerably increases its deployment of rooftop PV to help the state reach its 150% renewable energy target by 2030. By prioritising rooftop PV, Tasmania could reduce its planned investment in large scale generation and transmission infrastructure.

James Overington, CEO, Environment Tasmania said: “Tasmania has been over reliant on its aging hydropower assets for far too long and thus it has failed to prepare the state’s electricity mix for the future impacts of climate change and drought. Diversifying the state’s renewable energy mix is now critical. As part of this mix, Tasmania’s government should invest significantly in the roll-out of small-scale renewable energy systems and storage which will also help build social licence behind Tasmania’s energy transition.”

Maddie McShane, Energy & Climate Campaigner, Environment Tasmania said: “Tasmania’s government must play an active role in accelerating the deployment of renewable energy projects whilst ensuring the roll-out of renewable energy infrastructure enhances nature and provides tangible benefits to local communities. Detailed spatial planning, clear ‘no go’ zones and comprehensive community consultation will be key to delivering a sustainable energy transition in Tasmania.