A sustainable energy provider has issued a warning that urgent action is required to accelerate Australia’s renewable energy transition to meet its 2030 target of 82 per cent renewable energy and net zero by 2050 goal, due to the country’s delay in meeting this.
Australia is currently one of the world’s highest per capita emitters of greenhouse gases, therefore this lag is not only affecting the country’s environmental commitments but its global reputation as well.
The slow development of renewable projects in Australia can be attributed to labour shortages, inflation, inadequate funding and regulatory challenges.
All of these factors have impeded Australia’s ability to fully capitalise on the country’s renewable energy potential.
Vestas Vice President and Head of Australia and New Zealand Danny Nielsen said: “As a nation blessed with abundant renewable resources, Australia has immense potential to become a global leader in clean energy, however, our current pace is hindering the realisation of this potential.
“We must take immediate action to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy projects, streamline regulatory processes, and provide favourable policy frameworks that encourage investments in the sector.
“Only through collective efforts can we break the barriers and align Australia’s renewable energy ambitions with international expectations,” said Nielsen.
The Renewable Energy Target (RET) is an Australian Government scheme aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the country’s electricity sector.