The State Electricity Commission (SEC) of Victoria is making a triumphant return, led by Premier Jacinta Allan, who has unveiled the SEC’s ambitious Strategic Plan for 2023-2035. This strategic plan will play a pivotal role in propelling Victoria’s transition to renewable energy.
The plan outlines three key priorities for the next decade:
- Accelerating the energy transition through substantial investments.
- Facilitating the shift to all-electric households.
- Cultivating a skilled workforce for the renewable energy sector.
The SEC has committed an initial $1 billion to construct 4.5 GW of new renewable energy and storage projects, enough to power approximately 1.5 million homes. This investment will primarily focus on expanding energy storage and onshore generation while bolstering industry confidence to attract additional investments.
By 2028, the SEC aims to support 2.6 GW of renewable generation and storage assets. The SEC will take over the Victorian Government’s projects related to the Victorian Renewable Energy Target by 2025, adding 1.2 GW of renewable energy generation to the 4.5 GW.
This initiative is expected to provide renewable electricity to public hospitals, schools, police stations, and government buildings, contributing to the goal of making all Victorian Government operations and facilities 100 percent powered by renewable electricity by 2025.
Commercial and industrial customers will also benefit from SEC’s services as they manage their energy costs while transitioning to a net-zero emissions economy.
To simplify the process of electrifying older homes, the SEC will establish a trusted “one-stop shop” for Victorians, beginning with pilot household solutions in 2024. This initiative aims to make the transition from expensive fossil gas to electricity more accessible.
Households without solar panels can reduce their annual energy bills from $4,400 to around $3,000 through electrification. Those with solar installations can save even more, with potential annual savings exceeding $2,700 or a 60 percent reduction in energy expenses.
The SEC’s plans for the renewable energy transition align with Victoria’s broader goal of creating a more sustainable, affordable, and reliable energy future for its residents.
Moreover, the SEC anticipates generating around 59,000 jobs, including 6,000 traineeships and apprenticeships, to support the infrastructure and services required to achieve the state’s 95 percent renewable energy target by 2035. The SEC will play a significant role in workforce development and attraction through various channels, including establishing the SEC Centre of Training Excellence.
The SEC’s Pioneer Investment, set to be announced by the end of 2023, has received over 100 Registrations of Interest (ROI) from energy market participants, representing a combined market capacity of 24 GW of generation and 30 GW of storage capacity.
The development of the SEC’s Strategic Plan was guided by the SEC Expert Advisory Panel, comprised of leaders from the energy sector and business. Their expertise ensured the SEC’s design and positioning to accelerate Victoria’s energy transition.
Premier Allan emphasized that the SEC’s return will enable the government to invest in government-owned renewable energy, support households in adopting all-electric solutions, and cultivate the renewable energy workforce needed for Victoria’s future.
Victoria’s Minister for the State Electricity Commission, Lily D’Ambrosio, emphasized the SEC’s crucial role in achieving the state’s ambitious emissions reduction targets.
Victorian Treasurer, Tim Pallas, highlighted that the SEC’s initial $1 billion investment will encourage private investment and expedite projects essential for Victoria’s renewable energy transition.
Interim CEO of the State Electricity Commission, Chris Miller, expressed pride in reviving the SEC after over a century, highlighting its role in freeing Victoria from fossil fuel dependency and unlocking the potential of renewable energy. For more information on the SEC and its strategy, visit secvictoria.com.au.