ACT Government, 2024–2030, OUR PATHWAY TO ELECTRIFICATION

Climate change is one of the biggest challenges we face. The ACT is proud to lead on meaningful climate change action and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

In 2020 we were the first Australian jurisdiction to shift to 100% renewable electricity and we have legislated this in perpetuity. Transport and gas emissions are now the largest contributors to the ACT’s greenhouse gas emissions.

We are continuing our journey for Canberra to meet its goal of net zero emissions by
2045 while ensuring we remain a sustainable and liveable city. In 2022 the ACT Government announced another nation-leading policy approach; to use our 100% renewable electricity supply to power our city and transition off fossil fuel gas.

The energy transition will occur over the next 21 years. This gives us time to act and make early choices. The decision to decarbonise our homes, businesses and the way we move around has significant implications for how we design, build and upgrade our city infrastructure and energy networks over the next two decades and beyond. The government will lead the way and work with business, industry and households to remove technical and regulatory barriers and to provide support for those who need it most to transition. Our fossil fuel industry workers will be reskilled to take advantage of new employment opportunities.

The renewable energy transition will be facilitated by the right skills and jobs in renewable
energy industries in Canberra.

The ACT community, business and industry are leaders in demonstrating how to reap the benefits of affordable renewable energy. Many Canberrans have already made the switch away from gas to energy efficient electric options. About a third of Canberra households are already experiencing the benefits of an all-electric home, and more are embracing sustainable technologies such as solar panels and home battery systems, increasing the energy efficiency of their properties.

The Integrated Energy Plan provides the certainty Canberrans need to start planning their switch over the next 20 years. It builds on our achievements to date. It sets our pathway for continuing to lead the transition.

It invites businesses and the community to help deliver a zero emissions future for our city. I look forward to working with the whole community as we implement this plan and continue our journey to be a city powered by renewable energy.