Monday 23 September 2024
MEDIA RELEASE
Electric Dreams Key to Canberra’s Sustainable Future
The next ACT Government must work more closely with the property sector to put Canberra in pole position to become Australia’s first all-electric city, according to the Property Council of Australia.
Property Council ACT & Capital Region Executive Director Ashlee Berry said the ACT was already a national leader in the shift to high-performance, all-electric buildings.
“Canberra is ahead of the curve and paving the way for Australia’s energy future with a commitment to make the ACT all-electric by 2045,” Ms Berry said.
“The next ACT Government must capitalise on this momentum by working hand-in-hand with property owners and the property industry to ensure a smooth and successful transition.
“The built environment accounts for more than 50% of Australia’s electricity use and nearly a quarter of emissions, but it also offers some of the most cost-effective emissions reduction opportunities. Here in the ACT, we have the chance to set a benchmark for the rest of the nation.
“We need a clear strategy for high-quality retrofits, smart policies that support energy efficiency and electrification, and incentives to drive high-performance, sustainable buildings,” she said.
The Property Council’s Election Platform calls on the next ACT Government to prioritise a comprehensive strategy that includes:
- Targeted Incentives: Financial support for complex building upgrades, improved energy efficiency, and the adoption of all-electric solutions.
- Planning Incentives: Fast-tracked development applications and bonuses for density and height to encourage more sustainable and higher-performing buildings.
- Building Upgrades: Support for infrastructure upgrades, including plant room modernisation and flexibility in building heights and gross floor area (GFA).
- Workforce Readiness: Training programs to equip the local workforce with the skills needed for this transformative change.
“With the right support, we can replicate the success seen in residential electrification across commercial buildings and make Canberra a national, and even a global, leader in sustainable, low-carbon living,” Ms Berry said.
The Property Council of Australia will host a debate between ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr and Opposition Leader Elizabeth Lee on 16 October 2024, three days before the Territory election. For information visit: Seizing the Opportunity for Growth: Foundations for Tomorrow’s Canberra
MEDIA: Andrew Parkinson | 0404 615 596 | [email protected]