The discussion around decarbonising the economy is gaining momentum, with the LNP exploring nuclear power stations and Labor focusing on offshore wind and green hydrogen.
However, there is a noticeable gap in these discussions that needs to be addressed.
Transitioning towards a more sustainable future entails significant considerations.
The CSIRO’s GenCost report shed light on the levelised cost of energy for various technologies, highlighting that solar PV and onshore wind offer cost-effective energy generation options.
Currently, solar and wind energy firming costs range from $100 to $140 MWh, with projections indicating a decline to $90 to $120 per MWh by 2030.
To support this transition, reforms are essential to plan for future renewable projects and establish transmission infrastructure to accommodate our growing population.
It is crucial to ensure fair compensation for rural and regional communities hosting transmission developments.
Public ownership of poles and wires can facilitate government-led investments, paving the way for renewable energy zones.
Clean Energy Investor Group chief executive Simon Corbell emphasises the need for governments to enact laws that enable zero-carbon electricity generation, energy storage and transmission infrastructure development.
To achieve these goals, incentivising battery storage across households and businesses nationwide can alleviate grid stress caused by intermittent solar power.
Establishing federal programs for storage in schools and government housing, alongside renationalising poles and wires through transparent processes, are crucial stages.
Additionally, prioritising transmission upgrades, avoiding excessive grid investments, adequately compensating landowners who host transmission lines and ensuring reliable dispatchable generation sources as coal plants phase out are vital strategies.
As a country, we must invest in long-duration storage technology, which is key to shaping Australia’s energy future.
Carly Noble,
Candidate for the Senate, representing Victoria as an Australian Democrat at the 2025 federal election.