The Net Zero Economy Authority Bill, intended to facilitate Australia’s transition to a net zero emissions economy, is once again under scrutiny in parliament.
The bill, introduced alongside the Net Zero Economy Authority (Transitional Provisions) Bill 2024, aims to establish an authority to oversee this transition. However, experts are raising concerns about the bill’s lack of a clear roadmap to achieve net zero emissions.
Call for a Comprehensive National Plan
Dr. Manoj Datta, an expert in electrical and electronic engineering from RMIT, emphasizes the need for a well-defined national plan to phase out coal and gas-based power generation. He criticizes the bill for its focus on creating an authority rather than outlining a clear path to net zero.
Dr. Datta also points out that the bill fails to address the accelerated production and installation of renewable energy plants.
Additionally, the proposed authority lacks legislative power to shut down or request the closure of coal or gas-based power stations.
Proposed Amendments Aim to Strengthen the Authority
Independent MP Dr. Helen Haines has proposed amendments to the bill, calling for the inclusion of board members with expertise in renewable energy and regional investment in new zero technologies. Dr. Datta praises these amendments as a positive step towards facilitating renewable energy hubs and community-based investments.
Timing and Alignment with Net Zero Goals
Dr. Datta suggests that the bill’s timing could have been better aligned with a comprehensive plan to achieve net zero. He advocates for a European Union-style approach, which involves targeted investments and incentives for specific technologies and systems to decarbonize electricity production, transportation, and buildings.
As the debate unfolds in parliament, experts and stakeholders continue to call for a more comprehensive and actionable plan to guide Australia’s transition to a net zero emissions economy.
The need for a clear pathway, legislative power, and a focus on renewable energy remains a central point of contention.