The Blueprint for Australia's Net-Zero Future

Australia's Clean Energy Council has put forward a comprehensive strategic plan to the Federal Government, aiming to propel the country towards its goal of achieving 82% renewable energy by 2030. Titled "Power Playbook: Accelerating Australia's Clean Energy Transformation," this plan lays out 45 recommendations to help Australia seize global opportunities and maintain a competitive advantage in the renewable energy sector.

The submission calls for establishing a Clean Energy Transformation Investment Package, with an annual investment of $10 billion for at least 10 years, or a minimum of $100 billion, to enhance Australia's international competitiveness in renewable energy. It also urges the Federal Government to formalize a Renewable Energy Superpower Masterplan, which will guide Australia to become a leading producer and exporter of clean energy and value-added products.

To achieve full decarbonization of the electricity sector by 2035, the submission emphasizes the need to recognize that affordable renewable energy will be the cornerstone of Australia's competitive advantage in a net-zero economy. It further proposes the extension of the Large-scale Renewable Energy Target (LRET) beyond 2030, developing a national offshore wind target, and expanding the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme to support increased battery uptake.

The plan also highlights the importance of a coordinated national delivery plan for transmission projects of national significance, along with establishing new national targets for rooftop solar and distributed energy storage. Additionally, it calls for investment in green hydrogen, green iron, and energy transition minerals processing, as well as the development of a National Clean Energy Supply Chain strategy.

Clean Energy Council's CEO, Kane Thornton, stresses the significance of a unified strategy for Australia's renewable energy future, emphasizing that the decisions made today will impact future generations. The Power Playbook aims to foster serious discussion and concentrate national efforts on establishing a master plan to effectively allocate resources and achieve national aspirations.

The submission urges Australia to position itself as a leader in clean energy and green commodities markets to secure capital, technology, and skilled workers. It emphasizes that low-cost renewable energy is the foundation of Australia's competitiveness in the race to achieve net zero emissions.

To reach the government's target of 82% renewable energy by 2030, the submission identifies the need for a substantial increase in annual financial commitments and the installation of a significant amount of rooftop solar. This ambitious approach will be pivotal in realizing Australia's ambition to become a renewable energy superpower.

In conclusion, the Clean Energy Council's strategic plan for Australia's net-zero future lays out a clear roadmap for the country to embrace renewable energy, seize global opportunities, and maintain a competitive edge. By adopting this plan, Australia can position itself as a leader in the clean energy sector while reaping the economic and environmental benefits of a sustainable future.