The South Australian and Federal governments have signed an AU$1.08 billion (US$834 million) agreement to provide South Australians with reliable and affordable energy while maintaining emission reduction targets. The deal involves a $100 million energy grid interconnector between South Australia and New South Wales and an investment of $510 million for emissions reduction projects such as carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, solar thermal, and electric vehicles. But the deal also includes a push for an increase in gas supply, building on the government’s Gas-Fired Recovery plan—a plan to reduce costs and emissions and address Australia’s forecasted gas supply shortfall. Prime Minister Scott Morrison said in a media release that the plan will play an important role in supporting families and small business while still addressing climate concerns. “Families and businesses need affordable, reliable power. That is what reduces prices and creates jobs,” Morrison said. “Australians also want to ensure we …