The ACT government has released the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) 2024-2030 — which outlines the territory’s next steps towards an all-electric, zero-emission future for Canberra.

The IEP details the ACT’s strategy for transitioning to net zero emissions over the next two decades, including government support for residents to adopt cheaper, cleaner energy sources.

Andrew Fischer, Head of Policy and Research at the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) praised the ACT’s investment in electrification.

“The commitment by the ACT government to develop this clear policy direction supporting the safe, efficient and equitable transition to electrification for Canberra is commendable,” Fischer said.

“Crucially, this plan includes $5.2 million in funding to develop a pathway to electrify private households that need the support most.”

The plan highlights significant potential savings for households that switch from gas to efficient electric appliances for cooking, heating, and hot water.

Such changes could result in annual savings of around $735, with even greater benefits for households utilising solar energy.

While the ACT currently meets its electricity needs with 100 per cent renewable energy, approximately 139,000 homes and buildings in the territory still rely on fossil gas for heating, hot water, and cooking, contributing to carbon emissions.

The IEP aims to provide a policy framework and supporting initiatives to help households and businesses transition to electric alternatives.

Fischer noted that the IEP aligns closely with ‘Every Building Counts’, a roadmap developed by GBCA and the Property Council of Australia in 2023 to guide all levels of government towards a zero-carbon-ready built environment.

“It’s great to see that the ACT has a clear pathway towards electrification, that aims to bring every Canberran along,” Fischer added.

“If Australia is going to meet the targets set out in the Paris Agreement, national consistency across all three levels of government should be a priority, so we all get there together.”

Key actions in the IEP that align with ‘Every Building Counts’ recommendations include electrifying all feasible public and community housing by 2030, providing interest-free loans for multi-unit buildings to become electric vehicle-ready, and developing policy frameworks to support the safe and equitable decommissioning of the gas network.

The plan also commits to electrifying all ACT government-owned and operated buildings where possible by 2040.