Research commissioned by Environment Victoria shows that 12 months after the highly polluting Hazelwood power station closed, Victoria has a reliable electricity system and less climate pollution.
Environment Victoria spokesperson Nicholas Aberle said: “This analysis shows our electricity supply held up through a hot summer, while new wind and solar projects will make our grid cleaner and more stable. Closing Hazelwood has slashed Victoria’s climate pollution by 12 million tonnes, which is about 10%.”
Overall, Victoria’s electricity consumption fell, driven by growth in energy efficiency and rooftop solar. Diesel generators brought in as emergency back-up were never even turned on.
Like the article? Subscribe to Green Left now! You can also like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.