Climate & Energy Australia – February 2025
Date: February 26, 2025, 12:00 AM GMT
Executive Summary: This issue focuses on the ongoing debate surrounding Australia’s energy transition, highlighting the clash between renewable energy adoption and continued reliance on fossil fuels. Key themes include the potential setbacks to net-zero targets from pursuing nuclear energy, the political pressures influencing energy policy, the financial performance of major energy companies like Woodside, and the circular economy’s role in sustainable building practices. Also, there is a global perspective on climate action and energy policies.
Renewable Energy Transition & Challenges
Nuclear Power’s Impact on Net-Zero Goals
New analysis from the Climate Change Authority indicates that incorporating nuclear power into Australia’s energy grid could significantly delay the achievement of net-zero emissions, adding at least 2 billion tonnes to national emissions. This report casts doubt on the feasibility of nuclear power as a viable solution for Australia’s energy needs, suggesting it could set back net-zero targets by up to 12 years.
Energy Source & Distribution (20 hours ago)
Political Interference in Renewable Energy
Australia’s renewable energy transition is being influenced by political agendas rather than evidence-based decision-making. The Biodiversity Council emphasized the importance of objective data in shaping the future of renewable energy in Australia. Additionally, there is discourse about the Liberal Party potentially dropping the 2035 climate target if elected, creating uncertainty in the renewable energy sector. A video discusses the potential economic damage of slowing the transition to renewable energy and pursuing nuclear power.
Instagram (1 day ago), Facebook (1 day ago), Instagram (10 hours ago)
Atlas Network’s Tactics Against Energy Transition
The Atlas Network and its affiliates are reportedly employing “dirty tactics” to hinder the energy transition in Australia, particularly targeting offshore wind projects. This suggests a coordinated effort to undermine the shift towards renewable energy sources.
Instagram (17 hours ago)
Fossil Fuels & Carbon Emissions
Woodside Energy’s Profit Surge and Future Plans
Woodside Energy’s full-year profits more than doubled to $US3.57 billion ($5.6 billion) in 2024, driven by record oil production. The company faces scrutiny as both a significant carbon emitter and a key energy provider. Meanwhile, the assessment of Woodside’s extension plans for their North West Shelf project are facing complexities.
9News.com.au (15 hours ago), AFR (14 hours ago), Energy News Bulletin (15 hours ago)
Pressure to Axe Gas Expansion Plan
The Greens and teals are applying pressure on the government to cancel the $30bn extension of the North West Shelf gas project. This political friction highlights the ongoing conflict between environmental concerns and the economic benefits of gas production.
The Australian (9 hours ago)
Sustainable Practices and Circular Economy
Circular Economy Framework for the Built Environment
The Australian federal Department of Climate Change, Energy and the Environment and Water published the first national Circular Economy framework in December 2024. This framework is set to influence the use of recycled content in the built environment, encouraging more sustainable construction practices.
The Fifth Estate (13 hours ago)
Energy Rating Boost for Homes
Australian households will soon have access to better information on their home’s running costs, enabling them to make informed decisions about cost-effective upgrades to reduce energy bills.
Mirage News (18 hours ago)
International Collaborations & Developments
Indonesia-Northern Territory Partnership on Critical Minerals
The Indonesian Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources is collaborating with the Northern Territory of Australia to strengthen the supply chain of critical minerals, highlighting international efforts to secure resources for the energy transition.
Indonesia Business Post (10 hours ago)
Energy Projects & Innovation
Hi-Tech Air Storage Secures Energy Future
An old Broken Hill mine site will be transformed into a compressed air energy storage system, delivering energy security and jobs.
Mirage News (22 hours ago)
Video Highlights
Climate Contracting in Real Estate
Webinar discussing climate contracting in real estate.
RICS (1 day ago) (59:06)
Energy Codes for Buildings in the Global South
Webinar designed for researchers, policymakers, and professionals interested in energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.
Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction (1 day ago) (1:04:39)
