Smart Energy Council encouraged by the work of the Treasurer’s Investor Roundtable
The Treasurer’s Investor Roundtable held in Brisbane today provided a clear and resounding message to the highest levels of the Australian Government.
Before the imminent release of the Albanese Government’s second budget in early May – Australia can and must take our place as a renewable energy superpower.
The Smart Energy Council’s Chief Executive, who opened the post-roundtable media conference, expressed a clear message that was delivered to the roundtable.
“The Hawke-Keating era in the 1980s ushered in the modernisation of Australia’s economy, the 2020s must see the decarbonisation of the Australian economy,” said Smart Energy Council CEO John Grimes.
“Australia has the critical minerals, skilled workforce, manufacturing capacity and private capital waiting to be unleashed – we must seize this moment to transform our economy.
The Smart Energy Council welcomes the announcement of a Sovereign Green Bonds scheme enabling investors to provide funding to public projects that promote net zero outcomes. This scheme echoes similar calls from the Smart Energy Council over several months and is in line with the work of the Climate Capital Forum group’s recent discussion paper.
The Treasurer also announced an upgrade to the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme rating system to apply to existing homes, which means people will be able to seek a star rating of their home’s energy performance.
Another welcome announcement emanating from today’s roundtable is the $4.3 million commitment to boost the integrity of green investments, by empowering and funding the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) to enforce claims made by providers of sustainability and efficiency products.
“Greenwashing is a significant issue in our economy, providing funding to stop this practice is a step in the right direction,” said Mr Grimes.
As the Federal Budget rapidly approaches, the Smart Energy Council will continue to call for bold policy decisions that drive Australia towards its renewable energy superpower potential.