Joint media release: Securing a reliable renewable energy future for the ACT

The Hon Chris Bowen, Minister for Climate Change and Energy

Andrew Barr MLA, ACT Chief Minister

Shane Rattenbury MLA, ACT Minister for Climate Change and Sustainability

A new agreement has been signed between the Albanese and Barr Governments to secure the ACT’s renewable energy future and support the nation’s renewable energy transformation.

The Renewable Energy Transformation Agreement (RETA) will bolster work underway to electrify homes and businesses across the ACT.

The ACT achieved its 100% renewable electricity target in 2020 and is uniquely positioned to pilot and test new ideas.

Through this agreement, the Commonwealth has committed to exploring opportunities to collaborate with the ACT Government in priority areas that support the national energy transformation.

These priorities include:

• acceleration of vehicle-to-grid capabilities, where EVs become mobile power banks
• electrification of complex building
• energy performance improvements, including electrification of private lower-income households and of public and community housing 
• supporting energy innovation.

Lessons learned through these programs will be shared and used to inform future projects across Australia.

Governments have also committed to a range of practical actions as part of the agreement that will improve community engagement and drive better social and economic outcomes from the renewable energy transformation.

The agreement with the ACT is the third to be signed, following agreements with South Australia and Western Australia. Negotiations continue with other states and territories.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen:

“Today’s agreement will support not just the ACT’s clean energy and net zero future, but Australia’s.

“The innovation and expertise that will drive the electrification of homes, businesses and vehicles across the Territory will also help us provide reliable renewable energy across Australia.

“The Albanese Government’s Reliable Renewables Plan is the only plan backed by experts to deliver the cheap, reliable and resilient energy system that families and businesses deserve. This is in sharp contrast to Peter Dutton’s anti-renewables nuclear fantasy which remains uncosted and unexplained.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Chief Minister, Andrew Barr:

“In 2020, Canberra became the first city outside of Europe to be powered by 100% renewable electricity, and the entire ACT will achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

“Our progressive and practical policies have seen Canberra maintain the lowest regulated electricity prices in the National Electricity Market while also creating more jobs in renewables here in the ACT.

“This agreement will support the ACT’s nation-leading clean energy transformation and provide new paths towards a nation powered by reliable renewables.”

Quotes attributable to ACT Greens Leader and Energy spokesperson, Shane Rattenbury:

“The ACT has long been a leader in climate action. We have committed to phasing out fossil gas by 2045 and are progressing well on our journey to electrify our city, improve energy efficiency and deliver a just transition.

“This new agreement will ensure we continue to lead as we accelerate the electrification process and boost efficiency, including in apartment complexes and in public housing, and as we trial new technologies to support an efficient, all-electric city."