Media release: Global efficiency pledge crucial to winning the emissions race 05 December 2023
The Energy Efficiency Council (EEC) has welcomed the Australian Government’s action in signing the Global Renewables and Energy Efficiency Pledge. As one of 117 signatories, Australia has pledged to triple the rollout of renewable energy and double progress in energy efficiency by 2030.
Energy efficiency is the cheapest and fastest way to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, and must be at the centre of Australia’s journey to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
From COP28 in Dubai, EEC CEO Luke Menzel applauded the work of Australia and other countries in recognising that energy efficiency and renewables must work together to facilitate rapid emissions reduction.
“The Global Pledge calls on all signatories to make energy efficiency the ‘first fuel’ of policy-making – and nowhere is that more important than in Australia,” Mr Menzel said.
“While we’re seeing significant commitments to energy efficiency from governments right around Australia, we’re starting from a low base. Just last year, Australia was ranked worst in the developed world for energy efficiency policies and performance – we’ve got our work cut out to fix that”, he said.
The EEC calls on all Australian governments to get behind the global pledge. As we face another summer of extreme weather, the need to rapidly reduce our emissions has never been more urgent.
“Energy efficiency is an action that everyone can take,” said Mr Menzel. “Governments, businesses, households and individuals alike can take part in the pledge. And the best part is, not only will we all do our bit for the climate, it will save money at the same time.”
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Media enquiries: Tim Fisher, EEC Head of Engagement 0414 893 313 tim.fisher@eec.org.au
About the Energy Efficiency Council
The Energy Efficiency Council is a not-for-profit membership association for businesses, universities, governments and NGOs. The EEC works to build sophisticated markets for energy management products and services that deliver a prosperous, net zero Australia with:
- Affordable, reliable energy;
- Healthy, comfortable buildings; and
- Productive, competitive businesses.
Learn more at eec.org.au