Low carbon futures: renewable energy potential in Playford

Abstract

Whilst top down policy on climate change at Federal and State level is evolving and bottom up initiatives at the level of individual firms and households are beginning to capture public interest, there is often a gap between these two extremes. This gap is well illustrated by the lack of data in respect of the current energy profile of spatial areas such as local councils. It is also apparent in the lack of information on the potential for energy and greenhouse gas reduction at this level of analysis. Using a case study of Playford Council in South Australia, this paper addresses the second of these aspects, and seeks to identify the renewable energy potential in the area. It identifies the primary renewable energy resources and introduces techniques for assessing their potential. The paper examines the potential for change from the current energy profile and seeks to quantify both the greenhouse gas savings that are possible and the benefits, in terms of financial advantages and job creation that could accrue to building owners and the community at large in Playford, should mandatory carbon reduction targets be imposed.