The Morrison Government is committing to foundational projects to underpin a bilateral energy and emissions reduction deal with the Northern Territory Government that will deliver secure, reliable and affordable power and create jobs across the NT.
Through the 2021-22 Budget, the Government will invest $30 million to fund electricity infrastructure projects that will boost the reliable and affordable supply of energy in the NT, while reducing emissions.
The Morrison Government will deliver:
- $15 million to help build a 35 MW big battery as part of the Darwin to Katherine Interconnected system, which will help maintain security and reliability with growing levels of variable renewable energy; and
- $15 million to deploy microgrids in up to 10 remote Indigenous communities, which will provide more secure, reliable and affordable electricity through lower reliance on diesel generators.
The Northern Territory Government has committed $30 million to battery energy storage systems and $69 million to advancing remote and regional microgrids across the Territory.
These initiatives are expected to create up to 237 new jobs.
Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Angus Taylor said the Government is investing in initiatives to shore up the supply of reliable and affordable power for Territorians well into the future.
"The Morrison Government is firmly focused on delivering affordable, reliable and secure electricity to all Australians," Minister Taylor said.
"These projects will provide reliable and secure power for Territorians and deliver affordable energy solutions for remote indigenous communities. This supports economic development, over 200 local jobs and reduces emissions.
"We are focused on working with states and territories to ensure their specific energy needs are met and will continue to work closely with our counterparts to ensure all Australians can access the cheap and reliable power, wherever they live."
Senator for Northern Territory Dr Sam McMahon said the Federal Government investment in boosting the reliability of the NT electricity grid is important and welcomed the announcement.
"Reliable and affordable energy helps families and businesses to get ahead," Senator McMahon said.
"Less money Territorians spend on electricity means more opportunities to grow and prosper, particularly in our job-creating industries."
Today's announcement builds on the Morrison Government's $50 million Regional and Remote Communities Reliability Fund, which has already awarded over $5.2 million to microgrid feasibility studies across more than 20 locations in the NT.
The Government's plan for Australia's energy future is focused on bringing down prices, keeping the lights on and reducing emissions. These latest initiatives will support Australia to achieve this reality and build on the Government's previously announced actions to shore up the reliability of our energy grid, reduce costs and create jobs.
