Fact check: Can South Australia really run on renewables in 2027

1. Summary of the results

Based on the available analyses, South Australia's goal to run on 100% renewable electricity by 2027 appears achievable. The state has already made significant progress, currently generating 71-74% of its annual electricity demand from wind and solar ^[1]. This represents a dramatic increase from just 1% renewable generation 16 years ago ^[2]. The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has even suggested this target could be reached by 2026 ^[1], with projections showing approximately 85% renewable generation by 2025/2026 ^[2].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Several important factors support this transition:

• Infrastructure Development: The state is investing in new transmission infrastructure and large-scale wind and solar projects ^[1]
• Energy Storage Solutions: Battery storage systems are being implemented ^[1]
• Hydrogen Integration: Growing hydrogen production plans are part of the strategy ^[1]
• Accelerated Timeline: This target actually represents an acceleration of the previous 2030 goal ^[3]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question's phrasing "really run on renewables" might suggest skepticism, but it's important to note:

• The target is for "net 100% renewable electricity generation" ^[3], not constant 100% renewable power
• The state government and AEMO, both significant stakeholders, express confidence in this goal ^{[3] [1]}
• The transition is backed by concrete infrastructure plans and existing progress ^[1]

Beneficiaries of this narrative include:

• Renewable energy companies and investors in wind/solar projects
• Battery storage manufacturers
• Hydrogen industry stakeholders
• The South Australian government, which can claim environmental leadership
• Environmental advocacy groups

It's worth noting that traditional energy providers and fossil fuel industries might have opposing viewpoints, though these weren't represented in the provided analyses.