The South Australian Labor government will lift the state's renewable energy target to 75 per cent and set a 25 per cent target for renewable energy storage by 2025, if returned at the March state election.
Premier Jay Weatherill says the two initiatives will help drive down power prices and maintain the state's leadership position in the renewable energy sector.
Mr Weatherill says the plan to have Australia's first renewable energy storage target will also drive the installation of 750 megawatts of battery capacity, equal to about a quarter of the state's average peak demand.
"More renewable energy means cheaper power for South Australians and energy storage is the key to delivering that low-cost electricity around the clock," Mr Weatherill said.
Labor will commit $20 million over four years to leverage private sector investment in extra storage with the increased renewable energy target also designed to send a message to energy companies to develop new projects.
News that makes sense
Your trusted source for staying up-to-date with the world around you. Get free daily news updates and analysis, straight to your inbox.
"We're sending yet another signal to renewable energy leaders that their investment is welcomed in our state," the premier said.
The initiatives have been welcomed by the renewable energy sector with the Climate Council praising SA for once again raising the stakes.
"This is another step in the right direction towards tackling climate change," spokesman Andrew Stock said.
SA-BEST leader Nick Xenophon has also backed the push for a 75 per cent renewable energy target, "if it's done properly".
"If there is a proper transition and there is a guarantee it won't mean higher power prices, but indeed lower prices," he said.
"If you don't implement it well, it will be bad for the state."
But Federal Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg criticised the Labor proposal.
"Unfortunately under Jay Weatherill, you have had mismanagement of the system," he told ABC radio on Wednesday.
"Now the announcement of a 75 per cent target makes Jay Weatherill look like a problem gambler who is doubling down chasing his previous losses."
