Millions of Australian homes and businesses are driving a surge in clean energy adoption, embracing rooftop solar, batteries, and cleaner transport choices.
The Climate Council has unveiled a new tool, Momentum Monitor, to track progress in each sector of the clean energy transition.
Key findings from the Momentum Monitor reveal significant advancements in renewable energy adoption:
- Renewable energy has now comprised about 40 per cent of electricity in the national grid over the past 12 months.
- Utility-scale renewables and storage have increased by 12 per cent since July 2023, now representing 32 gigawatts (GW) of total grid-scale capacity.
- More than 240,000 rooftop solar installations have occurred since the start of 2024, with four million households now powered by rooftop solar.
- Household battery installations alongside rooftop solar have increased by 23 per cent this year.
- Australia has surpassed 160,000 registered electric vehicles, with sales expected to rise as the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard is implemented in 2025.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie commented on the progress, stating: “These numbers highlight the stunning progress we’ve made and how far we can still go. Australian households and industries are jumping on opportunities to use readily available, proven technologies.”
McKenzie emphasised the potential for further reductions in climate pollution through cleaner power sources, improved transportation choices, and more efficient energy use in industry.
She noted that simple changes, such as opting for public transportation or powering homes with solar energy, can contribute significantly to this effort.
Australia’s unique position as the sunniest country in the world and one of the windiest provides an advantage in harnessing climate solutions.
Large-scale solar and wind power, supported by storage solutions like massive batteries and hydropower, can provide clean, reliable energy for Australia around the clock.
“A 21st-century challenge calls for 21st-century solutions,” McKenzie added.
“Efforts to slash climate pollution are already empowering Australians by saving us money, strengthening our homegrown industries and creating new ones, all while helping to protect us from the worsening effects of climate change.”
The Climate Council’s Momentum Monitor will continue to track and report on Australia’s progress in clean energy adoption, providing valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and the public as the nation moves towards a more sustainable future.
