The Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO) 2023 Electricity Statement of Opportunities (ESOO) report makes it evident that the transition to renewable energy must be expedited promptly, according to the Climate Council.
The 10-year outlook report highlights the need for urgent activation of clean energy projects to maintain Australia’s energy system’s reliability amid ongoing reliability issues.
The ESOO report also indicated that Australia’s energy needs could be met reliably if governments, including New South Wales, fulfil their commitments.
“AEMO’s report shows that accelerating the rollout of renewable energy, storage, and transmission projects is key to fortifying Australia’s energy supply,” Climate Councillor and energy expert Andrew Stock said.
“With a wealth of clean energy projects ready for implementation, Australia has no excuse for inaction. The consequences of maintaining our dependence on unreliable fossil fuels is a future fraught with climate and energy instability and risk. By industry, governments and communities working together to accelerate renewables, storage and transmission, Australia will ensure its energy future is both clean and reliable,” Stock stated.
According to Climate Council Head of Advocacy Dr Jennifer Rayner, the report leaves no room for complacency, urging leaders to act now to fulfil their commitments to bring online clean energy generation.
“Clinging on to polluting fossil fuels will steer us into a climate and energy disaster – they are part of the problem now, not the solution. The only way through is to rapidly roll out clean, cheap renewable energy to power our homes, businesses and industry,” Dr Rayner said.
“This moment calls for cool heads and strong, decisive action. A sustainable, reliable energy future for Australia is within our reach, but it takes more than promises: now we need the delivery,” she added.
