Spatial Aggregation and Renewable Energy Landscape Planning: A Case Study in Victoria

Abstract

Spatially explicit assessment of renewable energy resources is critical for large scale landscape planning and design aimed at promoting clean energy supply and carbon neutrality so that future economic development and social advancement can be sustained. Renewable energy planning at national or state level is pivotal to a nation’s socio-economic sustainability in the context of the oil crisis, anthropogenic climate change and the social and economic impacts of globalisation resulting in the international dispersal of energy supply and ownership. Using Victoria (Australia) as a case study, this study aims to investigate the annual spatial heterogeneity of renewable energy potential across the state towards identifying the strengths and appropriate uses of spatial modelling for regional decision making in energy planning. The research explores spatial distribution of solar radiation and wind energy in Victoria and their potential in enabling 100% clean energy supply at utility and household levels. This study demonstrates the usefulness of integrating spatial analysis in planning for carbon-neutral energy supply. It is also clear that the adoption of spatial modelling systems for renewable energy planning also requires modelling of relevant infrastructure limitations and opportunities inherent in the energy sector. The paper concludes with recommendations for future renewable energy planning as a useful practice for carbon emission reduction and climate change mitigation