In this section, we’ll introduce you to the five decarbonization priorities specifically for Australia, aligned with
the country’s economic structure, emissions profile, and climate commitments.

So, here are the five main areas that the government focuses on for a faster transition to net zero:

1. Clean electricity across the economy.
2. Lowering emissions by electrification and efficiency.
3. Expanding clean fuel use.
4. Accelerating new technologies.
5. Net carbon removals scaled up.

Let’s have some more details on individual targets essential to achieving the renewable
target of net-zero emissions and addressing climate change:

1. Clean Energy Transition

In most parts of Australia, fossil fuels still dominate and fulfil the energy needs of its residents. Therefore, the
government plans to phase out fossil fuels, increasing the adoption of renewable energy
sources like solar, wind, hydro, etc.

Actions Requires:

• Decommission coal-fired power plants.
• Invest more in renewable energy infrastructure.
• Modernize electricity grids to handle variable renewables.

2. Lower Emissions: Electrification of Transport

Data from some recent surveys indicate that transportation is the third largest emitter, which alone accounts for 22% of Australia’s total emissions.

So, the replacement of internal combustion engines with electric alternatives, such as solar cars, has become a must
for the country’s residents.

Actions Requires:

• Promote adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).
• Expand EV
  charging

• Invest in electric public transport and rail.

3. Energy Efficiency & Demand Reduction

Still today, Australia has comparatively poor energy efficiency in buildings and appliances. Therefore, residents are
finding new ways of using less energy to achieve the same or better outcomes from solar energy.

Actions Requires:

• Retrofit buildings for energy
  efficiency.

• Implement energy standards for appliances and industries.
• Encourage behavioral change in consumption patterns.

4. Accelerating new technologies| Industrial Decarbonization

In Australia, commercial buildings and industries are also the major emitters of carbon and other greenhouse gases.
So, reducing emissions from these commercial sectors has become more urgent.

Actions Requires:

• Accelerate the use of green hydrogen as a fuel or feedstock.
• Develop carbon capture, usage, and storage for industrial processes.
• Establish low-carbon manufacturing methods.

5. Nature-Based Solutions & Carbon Removal

Land use, forestry, and agriculture contribute significantly to emissions, but also offer opportunities if
appropriately utilized.

Actions Requires:

• Expand and better regulate carbon farming under the Australian Carbon Credit Units (ACCUs) scheme.
• Reforest degraded lands and protect native ecosystems.

Support regenerative agriculture and soil carbon initiatives.