South Australia vying to host COP31 to showcase world-leading clean energy grid

South Australia is making waves in the clean energy sector, with the state government launching a bid for Adelaide to host the COP31 climate summit in late 2026. The government highlighted South Australia’s leadership in renewables, hydrogen, and battery storage, as well as its capacity to accommodate over 30,000 visitors for the event. Hosting COP31 in Adelaide could bring in more than A$500 million in local economic benefits.

Premier Peter Malinauskas emphasized that South Australia is already a global leader in renewable energy and decarbonization, and hosting COP31 would further elevate the state’s profile on the international stage. The Australian government aims to co-host COP31 with a Pacific Island nation, with Turkey also vying to host the summit. Both countries will compete for support from their United Nations regional group at COP29 next month.

South Australia currently sources 75% of its energy from renewable sources and is on track to achieve net 100% renewables by 2027, a highly ambitious target. The state exports renewable electricity to neighboring Victoria and is investing in innovative grid-balancing solutions, such as the world’s largest battery, the Hornsdale Power Reserve, built by Tesla. Additionally, the state government is investing nearly A$600 million in a facility combining a large-scale hydrogen electrolyzer and a hydrogen-fired power plant to further enhance its clean energy capabilities.

If successful in its bid to co-host COP31, South Australia could potentially host one of the largest international conferences in the nation’s history, surpassing the usual hosts of Sydney and Melbourne. The state’s commitment to clean energy and sustainability positions it as a frontrunner in the global fight against climate change.

Overall, South Australia’s bid to host COP31 underscores its dedication to advancing clean energy technologies and showcasing its achievements on the world stage. With its impressive track record in renewables and innovative grid solutions, the state is poised to lead the way in transitioning to a sustainable and low-carbon future.