Published

2 years ago

December 27, 2023

Alice Rush

The central challenge in addressing climate issues revolves around energy, and it is also a crucial component of the solution.

A significant portion of the Earth’s greenhouse gases, which create a heat-trapping effect, originates from the production of energy through the combustion of fossil fuels for electricity and heat generation.

So how much of the world’s electricity is sustainable? Let’s find out.

Renewable Energy Sources

Coal, oil, and gas, classified as fossil fuels, overwhelmingly contribute to global climate change, responsible for over 75 percent of worldwide greenhouse gas emissions and nearly 90 percent of all carbon dioxide emissions.

The scientific consensus is unambiguous. To avert the most severe consequences of climate change, emissions must be nearly halved by 2030 and reach a net-zero status by 2050.

Achieving this goal requires moving away from reliance on fossil fuels and directing investments toward alternative energy sources characterized by cleanliness, accessibility, affordability, sustainability, and reliability.

What Percentage of Energy is Sustainable

Renewable energy sources, abundant in nature and harnessed from the sun, wind, water, waste, and Earth’s heat, are continually replenished by natural processes, emitting minimal to no greenhouse gases or pollutants into the atmosphere.

Although fossil fuels still dominate global energy production, comprising more than 80 percent, cleaner energy alternatives are progressively gaining traction. Currently, approximately 29 percent of electricity is derived from renewable sources.

Why Transition To Clean Energy is Important

Here are five reasons why speeding up the transition to clean energy is the most effective way to ensure a healthy, livable planet for future generations.

Abundant Renewable Energy
Renewable energy is Cheap
Renewable Energy is Healthier
More jobs through renewable energy
Economically sensible choice

Sustainable VS Non- Sustainable Energy

Sustainable and non-sustainable sources refer to different types of resources based on their ability to be utilized without depleting or harming the environment and their capacity to meet the needs of current and future generations. Here’s an overview of each:

Sustainable Sources:

Sustainable sources are those that can be replenished naturally and are not depleted faster than they can regenerate. These sources are considered environmentally friendly and contribute to long-term ecological balance. Some examples include:

Renewable Energy: Sources like solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal energy are sustainable because they are naturally replenished and do not deplete over time.

Biomass: Organic materials such as wood, crop residues, and organic waste can be used sustainably as a source of energy.

Sustainable Agriculture: Practices that maintain soil health, biodiversity, and ecosystem balance without depleting natural resources.

Responsible Forestry: Harvesting wood and forest products in a way that ensures the forest’s regeneration and long-term health.

Water Conservation: Managing water resources in a way that ensures availability for future generations.

Non-Sustainable Sources:

Non-sustainable sources are those that are finite or deplete faster than they can be naturally replenished. The use of these sources can lead to environmental degradation and may not be viable for long-term use. Some examples include:

Fossil Fuels: Coal, oil, and natural gas are finite resources that contribute to environmental pollution and climate change. Their extraction and combustion release greenhouse gases.

Non-Renewable Minerals: Resources like rare metals and minerals that are extracted from the earth but do not regenerate on a human timescale.

Over-Exploitation of Fisheries: Harvesting fish and marine resources at a rate that exceeds their natural reproduction, leading to depletion.

Deforestation: Clearing large areas of forests without adequate replanting, leading to loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services.

Excessive Water Extraction: Drawing water from aquifers or rivers at a rate that exceeds natural replenishment, leading to water scarcity.

In sustainable development, there is a growing emphasis on transitioning from non-sustainable to sustainable sources to ensure a more balanced and resilient future for the planet.

Global Energy Production

Global electricity production is a dynamic and evolving landscape.

As of the early 2020s, the global electricity production mix includes a combination of various energy sources. The major contributors to global electricity production include:

Fossil Fuels:

Coal: Historically, coal has been a significant contributor to electricity production, although its share has been gradually decreasing due to environmental concerns.

Natural Gas: Natural gas-fired power plants have seen an increase in use, partly because they are considered a cleaner alternative to coal.

Renewable Energy:

Hydropower: Hydroelectric power remains one of the largest sources of renewable energy for electricity generation.

Wind Power: The capacity of wind power has been growing rapidly in many parts of the world.

Solar Energy: Photovoltaic solar power has experienced remarkable growth, with decreasing costs making it more competitive.

Nuclear Power:

Nuclear energy contributes a significant portion of electricity in some countries, although the growth has been slower compared to other sources.

Other Sources:

Biomass, geothermal, and other sources collectively contribute a smaller but still noteworthy share to global electricity production.

It’s important to highlight that the energy mix varies significantly by region and country. Some nations rely heavily on specific sources due to geographical, economic, or policy considerations.

Challenges of Sustainable Energy Future

Intermittency and Reliability

Challenge: Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are intermittent, depending on weather conditions. Ensuring a reliable and consistent power supply requires addressing issues of intermittency and storage.

Energy Storage and Grid Integration

Developing efficient and cost-effective energy storage solutions is crucial for storing excess energy generated during peak times and supplying it during periods of low renewable generation.

Infrastructure and Investment

Transitioning to renewable energy requires significant investments in new infrastructure and technologies. This poses financial challenges and may require changes in investment patterns and policies.

Transition from Fossil Fuels

Reducing dependence on fossil fuels poses economic and geopolitical challenges, as many economies are heavily reliant on these sources. A smooth transition requires managing the economic impact on fossil fuel-dependent regions.

Technological Innovation

Continued innovation is needed to enhance the efficiency and reduce the costs of sustainable energy technologies. Research and development are critical to overcoming technological barriers.

Policy and Regulatory Frameworks

The lack of consistent and supportive policies and regulations can hinder the growth of sustainable energy. Governments need to create stable and favorable frameworks to incentivize investments in clean energy.

Opportunities for Sustainable Energy Future

Climate Mitigation and Adaptation

Opportunity: Sustainable energy is a key tool for mitigating climate change by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It also offers opportunities for adapting to the impacts of climate change.

Job Creation

Opportunity: The transition to sustainable energy creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and other sectors. This can stimulate economic growth and support the development of a green workforce.

Energy Independence

Relying on local and renewable energy sources reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing energy security and reducing vulnerability to geopolitical events.

Cost Competitiveness

As technology advances and economies of scale are realized, sustainable energy sources are becoming increasingly cost-competitive with traditional fossil fuels, making them more attractive to investors and consumers.

Environmental and Health Benefits

Sustainable energy sources have lower environmental impacts and contribute to improved air quality, reducing the health risks associated with pollution.

Decentralized Energy Systems

Sustainable energy allows for the development of decentralized energy systems, empowering communities to generate and manage their energy, fostering resilience and self-sufficiency.

Technological Innovation, Projection, and Collaboration

The transition to renewable energy encourages innovation and collaboration among industries, governments, and research institutions, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.

The Australian government has undertaken various initiatives and projects related to energy, climate change, and sustainability.

Here are some key initiatives and projections:

National Hydrogen Strategy

The Australian government released a National Hydrogen Strategy to position Australia as a major player in the emerging global hydrogen market. The strategy focuses on developing a clean, innovative, and competitive hydrogen industry.

Renewable Energy Target (RET)

Australia has set a target to achieve 33,000 gigawatt-hours of electricity from renewable sources by 2020 under the Renewable Energy Target. This initiative aims to increase the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix.

Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)

The CEFC is a government-owned fund that invests in clean energy projects. It plays a role in supporting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-emission technologies.

Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF)

The ERF is Australia’s central policy for achieving emissions reduction. It provides financial incentives for businesses and organizations to adopt practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Snowy 2.0 Hydroelectric Project

The Snowy 2.0 project is a major expansion of the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Scheme. It involves the construction of a pumped storage facility to support renewable energy integration and grid stability.

Technology Investment Roadmap

The government has outlined a Technology Investment Roadmap to prioritize and support key technologies that contribute to emissions reduction. This includes investments in hydrogen, carbon capture and storage, and renewable energy.

Net Zero by 2050

Australia has set a goal to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. This commitment aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change and transition to a low-carbon economy.

Renewable Energy Expansion

The government aims to continue the expansion of renewable energy capacity, with a focus on solar and wind projects. This includes both large-scale renewable energy developments and support for distributed generation.

Electric Vehicles (EVs)

There is an increasing focus on promoting electric vehicles and associated infrastructure. The government aims to support the adoption of electric vehicles to reduce emissions from the transport sector.

Check out our EV chargers to get the best prices.

Investment in Low-Emission Technologies

Continued investment in research, development, and commercialization of low-emission technologies is expected to drive innovation and support the transition to a more sustainable energy landscape.

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How Much Of The World’s Electricity Is Sustainable?

Renewable Energy

The “Plandemic”

Published

1 day ago

January 17, 2026

Alice Rush

It wasn’t too long ago that crackpots spewing nonsense like this with no supporting evidence were ostracized by society. Now, our Republicans elect them to the U.S. senate.

You’d have to believe that “the elites” a) conspired with the top people in the other 200+ countries on Earth, b) had a motive to kill over 7 million people worldwide, c) wanted of cripple the world economy, and d) didn’t mind watching their loved one die agonizing deaths.

The “Plandemic”

Renewable Energy

Trump’s Suggestion for New Voting Rules

Published

2 days ago

January 17, 2026

Alice Rush

Donald Trump is suggesting something that does anything but benefit him? Are you kidding?

Trump’s Suggestion for New Voting Rules

Renewable Energy

Solar Solutions for Commercial Property Owners & Managers

Published

3 days ago

January 16, 2026

Alice Rush

Australia is one of the sunniest countries on Earth, offering a powerful opportunity for commercial property owners and managers seeking to lower operating costs, improve sustainability credentials, and add long-term value to their assets.

In Australia, if you have a commercial property, you already know that it is energy-intensive by nature, so running a commercial building efficiently requires a significant amount of energy.

However, as energy price rises and grid reliability becomes less certain, these operational costs are placing increasing pressure on building owners and managers.

That’s why solar energy for commercial buildings becomes the next environmentally friendly step your business should take.

Integrating solar into your building is one of the most effective ways to reduce reliance on the grid, stabilise energy expenses, and create a more sustainable asset that delivers measurable returns.

At Cyanergy, we break down why commercial solar matters in Australia, how it works, what incentives are available, and other solar solutions for commercial property owners & managers to maximise the benefits.

So, if you want to reduce your operational costs and boost your property’s value with high-performance commercial solar solutions, tag along!

In this blog post:

Why Solar Is a Strategic Priority for Commercial Properties

In Australia, tenants are increasingly prioritising green buildings, and adopting solar isn’t just an environmental choice anymore. The reason?

Commercial buildings, from manufacturing facilities and office spaces to industrial premises and retail complexes, consume significant amounts of electricity.

Installing solar photovoltaic (PV) systems enables these properties to generate their own clean energy, significantly reducing reliance on the grid and shielding tenant and landlord budgets from volatile electricity prices.

Here’s what makes solar especially compelling for commercial properties in Australia:

1. Slash Energy Bills & Reduce Operating Costs

Solar power can substantially reduce electricity bills, which can be a major overhead for commercial buildings.

By generating power onsite during peak sunlight hours, solar systems enable businesses to reduce grid electricity consumption, lowering bills and fostering economic growth, often with returns that outperform traditional investments.

2. Strengthen Sustainability & ESG Credentials

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors are not an optional field either.

Solar systems significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with grid electricity, helping properties achieve higher sustainability ratings and qualify for green certifications like NABERS and Green Star.

This resonates well with eco-conscious tenants, investors, and stakeholders, contributing massively to Australia’s sustainable development plan.

3. Future-Proof Against Rising Energy Prices

Grid electricity prices in Australia have generally trended upward, driven by market pressures and infrastructure costs.

By generating power onsite, commercial property owners can lock in stable, predictable energy costs over the long term, protecting their business from price spikes and uncertainty.

4. Improve Tenant Satisfaction & Attract Premium Tenants

Businesses increasingly want energy-efficient, sustainable buildings that offer lower operating costs and align with their corporate values.

So, properties with solar not only offer lower energy bills but also represent a commitment to Australia’s net-zero 2050 goals.

How Commercial Solar Works| Guide for Australian Businesses

Solar PV systems convert sunlight into electricity using panels mounted on rooftops or car park structures, feeding that power directly into the building’s electrical system.

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Solar generation → Self-consumption → Grid export (optional)

A modern commercial solar setup usually includes:

PV panels tailored to the roof space and energy demand
Solar inverters convert DC to usable AC power
Monitoring systems for real-time performance tracking
Battery storage to store and use solar power after sunset is optional, though

According to data, a well-designed system enables many commercial buildings to generate 40–75% of their electricity from solar, dramatically saving thousands of dollars in energy bills over time.

Australian Government Incentives & Financial Support for Solar in 2026

One of the most significant advantages for businesses in Australia is the different types of financial incentives designed to accelerate solar adoption and improve return on investment.

For instance,

1. Small-Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)

STCs are tradable certificates issued by solar systems with a capacity of up to 100 kW. The value of STCs reduces upfront costs, often delivering thousands of dollars in immediate discounts at the time of installation.

2. Large-Scale Generation Certificates (LGCs)

For larger commercial systems over 100 kW, LGCs are earned based on actual power generation and can provide ongoing revenue over many years by selling certificates on the market.

3. Tax & Depreciation Benefits

Australian businesses can benefit from accelerated depreciation and tax incentives that enable faster write-offs for solar equipment, thereby strengthening investment.

4. State-Level Rebates & Grants

In addition to federal schemes, a range of state rebates and programs can reduce costs or offer favourable financing:

Victoria: Solar for Business rebates and interest-free loan options.
South Australia: Commercial rebate supports and virtual power plant participation.
Queensland and other states: May include export feed-in tariffs and specific solar support mechanisms.

5. Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

PPAs allow businesses to install solar with minimal or no upfront cost. A third-party provider owns and operates the system, and the business agrees to purchase solar power at a fixed, lower-than-grid rate, often delivering immediate savings.

How to Choose the Right Solar Strategy for Your Property in Australia

Choosing the right solar strategy for your Australian property doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

With Cyanergy’s expert guidance, you can confidently pick your options and turn solar energy into an investment that delivers long-term savings and sustainability.

Here’s how:

Assess Your Energy Profile

Before installation, perform a detailed energy audit to understand your:

Current electricity usage patterns
Load requirements for daytime and evening
Roof orientation and sunlight exposure
Potential shading issues, especially from trees, dust and debris.

This helps design a system that matches your energy needs and maximises savings.

Consider Adding Battery Storage

Adding solar batteries can boost self-consumption by storing excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night or peak pricing periods.

Moreover, batteries enhance resilience during grid disruptions, particularly valuable for critical facilities.

Find Accredited Installers

Choose installers accredited with the Clean Energy Council (CEC) to ensure compliance, optimal design, and access to federal incentives.

In Australia, some accredited professionals also offer performance monitoring and maintenance services.

Integrate with Energy Management Systems

For larger commercial properties, solar can integrate with building management and smart energy systems to optimise consumption and reduce peak demand charges

Explore Cyanergy’s Commercial Cases: Solar ROI in Action!

In real-world examples, solar panels already represent strong financial outcomes. Many Australian commercial properties achieve payback within 3–7 years and continue to generate free electricity for decades afterwards.

Therefore, in the following section, we’ve shared several real-world commercial case studies from Cyanergy. Let’s read along!

Cyanergy Case Study: Kew Golf Club (VIC)

System size:88 kW
Payback period: 63 months (5 years)
Yearly savings: $26,165, that’s a 50% reduction in electricity costs
Annual generation: 141 MWh

This project represents how even community facilities and sports venues can benefit from solar, decreasing ongoing costs and strengthening their commitment to sustainability.

Sparacino Farms (NSW)

Cyanergy’s portfolio includes a variety of businesses across sectors and sizes.

For example, at Sparacino Farms, a family-run avocado and citrus operation, Cyanergy installed a 99.76 kW commercial solar system. The impact was striking:

Yearly electricity cost dropped: from $48,000 to $12,000
Monthly savings: $3,000
Payback period: 30 months (2.5 years)
Annual clean energy generation:87 MWh

This case highlights how a well-designed system not only dramatically reduces energy bills but also supports long-term resilience and sustainability for agricultural businesses, turning rooftop space into a strategic financial asset.

Philter Brewing (NSW)

System size: 86 kW
Annual energy generated:99 MWh
Payback period: 45 months
Annual savings: $29,130 as electricity costs cut from $81,900 to $52,770

Philtre Brewing’s transition to solar power demonstrates how medium-sized manufacturing operations can reduce energy while advancing sustainability goals.

Final Takeaways| Why Commercial Solar Is a Smart Move?

Ultimately, we all know solar offers several benefits to property owners and managers, ranging from increased property value to energy independence.

Whether you’re a property owner looking to cut expenses, a facilities manager pursuing efficiency, or a real estate professional positioning your asset for future demand, solar power should always be at the heart of your energy strategy.

The reason is that it’s not just an upgrade; it defines the future of your property!

Need assistance in navigating the entire installation process? Contact Cyanergy today! Now is the time to power your commercial property smarter, cleaner, and more profitably with Cyanergy.