Australia’s path to decarbonization is closely tied to expanding renewable energy sources, particularly rooftop solar, which has notably outperformed wind and hydroelectric energy. This success, backed by over $20 billion in household investments, highlights rooftop solar’s cost-effectiveness and minimal environmental impact.

While residential adoption of rooftop solar has surged, there is significant untapped potential in the commercial and industrial (C&I) sectors. These systems primarily aim to reduce grid electricity costs rather than export surplus energy back to the grid. However, the combination of rooftop solar and battery storage in urban areas can decrease reliance on distant wind and solar farms, benefiting farmers and rural landholders.

To capitalize on this potential, supportive policies are needed for surplus energy injection into the grid, which may require distribution grid enhancements and network access revisions. State and local governments must act swiftly to implement policies that harness this urban resource, thereby attracting and retaining commercial and industrial consumers with affordable, clean electricity.

The Australian Government can support this initiative by fostering local energy supply, reducing the need for high-voltage transmission expansions. C4C is advocating for a policy transformation in C&I solar energy, encouraging state governments to adopt this approach. This initiative, led by Professor Bruce Mountain, aligns with both centre-right and centre-left ideologies, promoting a bipartisan effort for a sustainable energy future.