The ACT government has introduced the Integrated Energy Plan (IEP) 2024-2030, outlining the territory’s roadmap towards a fully electric, zero-emission future for Canberra.
The IEP details the ACT’s comprehensive strategy for transitioning to net-zero emissions over the next two decades, encompassing government support for residents to embrace cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy alternatives.
Green Building Council Applauds Electrification Efforts
Andrew Fischer, Head of Policy and Research at the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), commended the ACT’s dedication to electrification.
He praised the government’s clear policy direction, particularly the allocation of $5.2 million to facilitate the electrification of private households in need.
Cost Savings and Renewable Energy
The plan emphasizes substantial potential savings for households that switch from gas to energy-efficient electric appliances for cooking, heating, and hot water.
These transitions could lead to annual savings of around $735, with even greater benefits for households utilizing solar energy.
Addressing Fossil Gas Dependence
Although the ACT currently sources 100% of its electricity from renewable energy, about 139,000 homes and buildings in the territory still rely on fossil gas for heating, hot water, and cooking, contributing to carbon emissions.
The IEP aims to establish a policy framework and supporting measures to assist households and businesses in transitioning to electric alternatives.
Alignment with National Roadmap
Fischer noted the strong alignment between the IEP and the ‘Every Building Counts’ roadmap, developed by GBCA and the Property Council of Australia in 2023.
This roadmap serves as a guide for all levels of government to work towards a zero-carbon-ready built environment.
He stressed the importance of national consistency across all levels of government to achieve the Paris Agreement targets.
Key Actions for a Zero-Carbon Future
Key actions outlined in the IEP, mirroring the recommendations of ‘Every Building Counts’, include the electrification of all feasible public and community housing by 2030, interest-free loans for multi-unit buildings to become electric vehicle-ready, and the development of policy frameworks to support the safe and equitable decommissioning of the gas network.
The plan also commits to electrifying all ACT government-owned and operated buildings where feasible by 2040.