The Climate Council has launched an ambitious plan to capitalise on Australia’s rooftop solar strengths, aiming to double the nation’s solar power capacity and install two million household batteries by 2030.
The initiative, dubbed “Seize the Sun,” is designed to slash energy bills, accelerate climate pollution reduction, and bolster the clean energy workforce.
A recent YouGov poll commissioned by the Climate Council reveals strong public support for rooftop solar expansion.
Over 80 per cent of current solar panel owners would recommend the technology to friends and family, highlighting the tangible benefits experienced by millions of Australian households.
Additionally, 73 per cent of non-solar households express interest in future installation.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie emphasised the widespread appeal of rooftop solar, stating: “Australians love the bill-busting benefits of rooftop solar and strongly support government action to expand it.”
She urged political parties to embrace rooftop solar initiatives in the lead-up to the next federal election.
The plan’s potential impact is significant, with Associate Professor Tim Nelson, a Climate Councillor, noting that approximately 3.6 million Australians are already benefiting from rooftop solar, collectively saving $3 billion on power bills annually.
The proposed “Aussie Solar Drive” and “Australian Energy Corps” initiatives aim to extend these savings to millions more homes and businesses.
Key components of the plan include:
- Doubling Australia’s rooftop solar capacity
- Installing two million household batteries
- Implementing community batteries and smart hot water systems to stabilise the grid
The YouGov poll also revealed that nearly three-quarters of Australians support federal government policies to drive a new wave of solar and storage installations.
This public backing provides a strong mandate for policymakers to prioritise rooftop solar expansion.
As Australia continues to lead the world in rooftop solar adoption, the Climate Council’s plan presents a timely opportunity to build on this momentum.
With its potential to reduce energy costs, cut emissions, and create jobs, the “Seize the Sun” initiative could play a crucial role in shaping Australia’s clean energy future.
