HILT CRC project webinar: Low-cost reliable green electricity supply for low-carbon heavy industry

Project Leader Dr Bin Lu (Australian National University) will share the results of modelling that co-optimises generation, storage, transmission and demand flexibility to supply 24/7 low-carbon electricity to energy-intensive operations.

The project’s key findings include:

• On-site solar photovoltaics (PV) and lithium-ion batteries can support continuous operations while delivering significant emission reductions.
• When the cost of emissions ($80–$420/t CO₂-e over time) suggested by the Australian Energy Market Commission are added to the cost of natural gas-fired power, solar and battery electricity systems offer a more cost-effective green alternative.
• Connecting to the grid and optimising load profiles can further lower electricity costs and enhance system reliability, supporting practical low-carbon transitions in heavy industry.

Dr Lu will outline implications for scenarios spanning spanning iron ore, alumina and cement in Western Australia, and highlight how partners can apply the algorithms, cost models and geographic information system data to test their own sites and assumptions.

NOTE: This webinar is exclusive to employees of HILT CRC Partner organisations.