How Can Australia Transition to 100% Renewable Energy over the next 10 Years?
Beyond Zero Emissions, a non-profit organisation developing blueprints for the implementation of climate change solutions, have released the Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Plan (full version). The Plan shows that Australia's energy needs can be met with zero carbon emissions.
Stationary Energy Plan
In The Plan, Beyond Zero Emissions have suggested a strategy that combines energy efficiency with renewable power generation in order to free Australia's electricity demand from fossil fuels for good.
The renewable energy technologies recommended in The Plan are:
-
60% concentrated solar thermal power which uses a system of mirrors to concentrate a large area of sunlight into a tower, which heats liquid salt stored there, and;
- 40% wind power
The idea is that during periods of high wind speeds, electricity from wind power is dispatched to the grid first, while the sun's energy is used to heat salt stored in the solar thermal towers. Then, when wind speeds are low, the heat stored in the towers maintains energy supply.
Beyond Zero Emissions want local climate groups to help spread the message that a renewable energy future is affordable and indeed vital. The national agenda surrounding Australia's carbon price is our change to show off Australia's renewable energy potential.
What can we do?
A renewable economy needs political will so together with Beyond Zero Emissions, COOLmob urge you to take action, speak up and be part of the solution. You can:
- Meet with your local MP and ask them to support 100% renewable energy
- Write letters to the editor of local or national newspapers
- Participate in talk back radio shows
- Send in a media release
- Participate in local community events
See also:
Beyond Zero Emissions website
Zero Carbon Australia Information Pack (2 page summary)
Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Plan (full version)