NEW REPORT: EAST COAST ELECTRICITY MARKET IN URGENT NEED OF MODERNISING

A report published today by the Institute of Energy Economics and Financial Analysis, ‘Sub-Critical Australia: Risks From Imbalance in the Australian National Electricity Market’, concludes that Australia’s outdated east coast electricity grid (NEM) is in urgent need of modernising.

“This latest research shows the critical need for Australia to begin the transition away from dirty coal fired electricity and shift towards a modern, 21st Century renewable energy grid," said Kellie Caught, National Manager Climate Change for WWF-Australia

“Achieving 100% renewable electricity by 2035 is affordable, desirable and doable with the technology we have access to right here in Australia."

“Over five million Australians live under a solar roof, generating more power than one of Australia’s largest coal generators, Loy Yang."

“However, to continue to take advantage of the momentum behind renewable energy, Australia needs a clear plan for phasing out coal and ensuring a just transition for workers and communities straight away."

The report comes only days after scientists confirmed the world has hit a major milestone of 400 parts per million of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

“Australia has an important role to play in reversing this upward trend, but it currently sits at the back of the pack when it comes to setting carbon pollution reduction targets,” Ms Caught said.

“It’s as if we have sped through a stop sign warning us of an impending cliff, yet we have no serious plans to put on the brakes."

“Australia needs a plan to achieve Net Zero Carbon Pollution before 2050, including a transition to 100% renewable electricity by 2035 and end wasteful fossil fuel subsidies, to combat global warming and its impacts."

WWF-Australia Media Contact: Daniel Rockett, National Media Manager, 0432 206 592, drockett@wwf.org.au