Positive measures outlined in EV plan

The Federal Government’s plan to encourage more Australians to buy electric vehicles (EVs) is a further step forward towards our net zero emissions target, the Australian Energy Council said today.

The AEC’s Chief Executive Sarah McNamara said encouraging the expansion of charging infrastructure, including smart chargers in homes, EVs in commercial and government fleets and the consideration of tariff reforms to better integrate EVs into the grid were all positive measures.

“The emissions projections released by the government last week show that there was a long way to go to reduce transport sector emissions, with transport forecast by 2030 to be the second largest carbon emitter behind stationary energy.

“While transport emissions are expected to fall from 2019 levels, by 2030 they are still forecast to be above 2005 levels.

“Greater electrification in sectors like transport is achievable now and will be an important ingredient in successfully getting that sector’s carbon emissions down. We know range anxiety is an issue for motorists, so a broader charging network will assist.

“EVs are likely to play an increasing role in managing system security and reliability through the harnessing of their storage capacity when they are charged. Tariff reform to promote flexible demand will also have a role to play.

“Identification of ways to encourage charging habits is vital so EVs can support the power system and also take full advantage of periods of surplus supply or reduced demand.  Smart chargers EVs will ensure additional EVs will support the grid and the AEC anticipates support seamless adoption.

“Today’s announcement is a reflection that to date, the electricity sector has been doing the heavy lifting on emissions reductions as more renewables come into the system and older power stations close. Electricity sector carbon emissions are expected to drop by 91 million tonnes between 2019 and 2030 because of the transition underway,” said Ms McNamara.

“Yet, Australia’s total carbon emissions are expected to fall by less than 91 million tonnes this decade because some sectors will actually see their emissions increase. Addressing these other sectoral emissions should now become our focus.”

About the Australian Energy Council

The Council represents 20 major electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in the competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. These businesses collectively generate the overwhelming majority of electricity in Australia, sell gas and electricity to over 10 million homes and businesses, and are major investors in renewable energy generation.