The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has released `Achieving a Net-Zero Economy: Roadmap for Victorian Businesses’ aimed at helping to reduce energy prices, ensure the reliable supply of energy and support businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy.
The Chamber’s roadmap advocates for the state government to produce a detailed plan on how Victoria will reach 95 per cent renewable energy in the State by 2035.
Business is committed to achieving net-zero but will need assistance in the transition to make sure they remain competitive against other states and countries.
The Chamber’s 25 recommendations include:
- A Government renewable energy roadmap – the Victorian Government prepares and publishes a comprehensive renewable energy roadmap that includes the Victorian Chamber’s recommendations and provides certainty for the business community.
- Energy intensive business support – ensure energy intensive industries receive opportunities for grants, subsidies and incentives to lower energy costs and effectively transition to renewable energy options.
- Develop Victoria’s skilled workforce – implement programs for reskilling workers in existing industries to transition via microcredentials or fast-tracked courses to ensure businesses have the future workforce they will need.
- Commercial solar upgrades – increase commercial subsidy schemes to incentivise commercial property owners to install renewable energy infrastructure.
A recent survey of Victorian Chamber members found 53 per cent of businesses believe Victoria is not doing enough to invest in renewable energy, dispatchable energy and energy infrastructure, while 75 per cent of businesses felt they were not getting enough support with the increased cost of energy in Victoria.
Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry CEO Paul Guerra said the transition to net-zero presents a unique opportunity for industry, and the Victorian economy.
“It is imperative that Victorian business and the State Government take a leadership role and use the transition to a net-zero economy as an opportunity to drive economic growth.
“Reducing emissions is about more than the environment; the renewable energy manufacturing sector could and should be a key component of Victoria’s manufacturing future. We have some of the best, if not the best, conditions for producing renewable energy in the world so we should be grasping this opportunity with both hands.
“By adopting our roadmap, we believe the Victorian Government can effectively attract private investment, reduce energy prices, ensure the supply of energy, and support businesses in transition to a net-zero economy.”
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