The Smart Energy Council warns that the Federal Coalition’s decision to abandon its commitment to cheaper, cleaner energy will hurt Australian homes and businesses.

Abandoning net zero is in reality a decision to drive up energy prices, scare off investment, and leave Australians paying more for power.

Chief Advocacy Officer David McElrea says the Opposition’s decision is a triumph of ideology over economics, and shows the Liberal and National Parties have turned their backs on science, industry, and the Australian public.

“Australians are already struggling with high power prices driven by our dependence on expensive gas and unreliable coal — and the Coalition’s answer is to double down on both,” Mr McElrea said.

“Climate wars are not an energy policy. Australians know renewables are the cheapest, cleanest, and most reliable path to lower bills and a stronger economy,” 

Mr McElrea says the Coalition’s retreat from net zero exposes a party hopelessly out of touch with the nation.

“Four million Australian solar homes are cutting bills not because of politics, but because renewables are cheaper,” he said.

“The Cheaper Home Batteries program proves people want to take control of their energy costs — yet the Coalition wants to keep them shackled to outdated, high-cost fuels.”

The Smart Energy Council warns that walking away from renewable and climate targets sends a dangerous signal to global investors and trading partners.

“This decision torpedoes investor confidence and damages Australia’s international reputation,” Mr McElrea said.

“While the rest of the world is racing to capture clean-industry jobs and investment, the Coalition wants to drag Australia back to the past.”

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David McElrea is available for media via Tim Lamacraft – tim@smartenergy.org.au – 0448 972 192