SBS and Docklands Studios now run on 100% renewable electricity, cutting emissions and stabilising costs. See how their bold steps are shaping a greener screen industry!
As Australia rides the green energy wave, big names like SBS and Docklands Studios are taking the lead by using Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs) to help boost renewable electricity on the grid. They’re doing so via Power Purchase Agreements and GreenPower. Which not only contributes to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future for Australia, but it adds value for clients looking to prioritise sustainability on their productions and offers financial stability on volatile energy prices.
Why Businesses and Broadcasters Should Consider Buying LGCs via GreenPower or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA):
What are Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)?
LGCs are purchasable certificates created for accredited large-scale power stations generating renewable electricity. The certificates represent the amount of renewable electricity generated by these facilities. One LGC is created per megawatt-hour (MWh) of renewable electricity generated - enough to run two fridges for a whole year!
Once the LGCs have been created, businesses or traders can purchase them to meet their emissions targets or to show they are using/supporting renewable electricity. By doing so, they are financially supporting and incentivising the generation of renewable electricity for the Australian GRID. So, when a business purchases LGCs, they're not just making an eco-friendly choice—they're actively boosting the amount of renewable energy made available to power our world.
Businesses can also buy LGCs directly from an accredited power station, but this must be done via a long-term purchase agreement, aka a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Which is exactly what SBS has opted for!
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SBS and the Transition to 100% Renewable Energy
SBS’s decision to transition to 100% renewable energy, via a ten-year LGC purchasing agreement with Zen Energy, was driven by a desire to meet its long-term sustainability goals. According to Abigail Thomas, Head of Sustainability at SBS, “Switching to 100% renewable energy is a big stride forward to decarbonise a broadcaster’s direct operational emissions and is the most logical first step in reducing emissions.”
The switch, which is powering their New South Wales and Victoria based operations, has received positive feedback from both employees and advertising clients. “Staff have been positive about the shift to 100% renewable energy,” says Abi. “Advertising clients appreciate the reduction in emissions from their campaigns, and it helps us move toward our Net Zero 2045 target by eliminating Scope 2 emissions.”
In addition to switching to renewable energy, SBS implemented energy efficiency measures including shifting from older incandescent lights to LED lighting, which uses about 30% less power and generates 20% less heat. These changes have significantly reduced the need for air conditioning in their studios. “The new LEDs are controlled by electronic switching and dimmers, further reducing energy consumption,” Abi explains.
When asked about advice for other broadcasters, Abi encourages them to make the switch: “A long-term Power Purchase Agreement also gives energy price predictability during what could be a volatile upcoming decade in the energy market.”
What is GreenPower?
However not all businesses have the capacity to broker or buy LGCs via a PPA, or install their own renewable energy solutions like solar panels. This is why GreenPower exists and is a great option to help boost renewables on the energy grid! Launched in 1997, GreenPower is a government-backed scheme that lets everyday businesses (and individuals) buy accredited LGCs in addition to their regular electricity, via their regular energy retailer. Here’s how it works: when an energy retailer sells a GreenPower product, they commit to buying (and retiring) the equivalent electricity used in accredited LGCs from renewable sources. This ensures that the amount of electricity consumed by the customer is matched by an equivalent amount of clean energy added to the grid.
While almost all energy retailers offer a GreenPower accredited product, it’s important to apply additional considerations when choosing a GreenPower provider. The gold standard is to buy GreenPower electricity from a supplier that generates its own renewable electricity or sources it directly from renewable generators. If this isn’t available, then look to buy GreenPower electricity from a renewables-friendly supplier, which does not have direct ties with fossil fuels. Bonus points if they purchase offsets on behalf of customers.
Docklands Studios Melbourne and the Shift to 100% GreenPower
Docklands Studios, Victoria's largest production facility, has also made a bold step towards sustainability by committing to 100% GreenPower. CEO Antony Tulloch explained the vision was to reduce environmental impacts and set a strong example in the industry. “We wanted to lead with environmentally responsible choices that align with global climate goals.”
The move has already yielded benefits. Alongside a significantly reduced carbon footprint the studio has received praise from productions using the facility. “It’s become a talking point. “Productions appreciate knowing they’re working with a studio powered by 100% GreenPower, which is a strong drawcard for clients who prioritise sustainability in their operations.”
Beyond GreenPower, Docklands Studios has also implemented energy-saving initiatives, such as efficient lighting systems and waste management programs. “We’re even exploring the feasibility of generating renewable energy on-site to stabilise the grid further,” Antony explains.
For other studios considering the switch to GreenPower, Antony emphasises the importance of research and planning. “Our feasibility study proved it made a lot of sense. The long-term rewards in sustainability and reputation are absolutely worth it.”
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LGCs play a crucial role in accelerating the shift to renewable energy by offering financial incentives that support the growth of wind, solar, and other clean electricity projects. Studios, broadcasters and businesses have the capacity to green their energy bills via PPAs or GreenPower. By doing so, SBS and Docklands Studios are setting a powerful example for the Australian Screen industry, by contributing to a sustainable energy future and establishing a benchmark for others to follow!
You can learn more about GreenPower here, and further details on LGCs here.
