Climate report shows Australian energy lags on emissions and is hurting the planet

A report released this week by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has delivered some startling assessments on global warming along with the revelation that Australia has already seen a 1.4°C rise in average temperatures.

The IPCC report is the first of its kind in 8 years, compiled by leading climate scientists around the world to focus (over a total of three reports) on current and future trends in global warming and the mitigations and effects preventative measures could have.

Australia’s domestic emissions continue to stay high despite an increasing uptake in renewable energy sources. The Australian energy industry trails most other developed countries in terms of emissions and share of green power generation, and a 1.4°C rise in average temperatures since the industrial era shows that the effects are being felt.

Higher average temperatures increase the risk of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts and floods. The report focused specifically on Australia’s fire season, reading “Frequency of extreme fire weather days has increased, and the fire season has become longer since 1950 at many locations (medium confidence).” It was also predicted at high confidence that Australia would continue to see increased fire weather events.

The report calls on governments such as Australia’s to implement change and policy to rapidly reduce emissions before further irreversible damage occurs.

With more renewable energy, why are we producing high emissions?

Unfortunately, despite our renewable energy uptake continuing to increase we aren’t yet seeing the significant drop in emissions it can bring about. The construction and operation of renewable projects can contribute to these emissions, as does Australia’s continued use of fossil fuels.

Thankfully, we’re laying the groundwork now with the construction of these projects that will see our emissions begin to fall as more of these new technologies get implemented. Even large companies such as mining giant BP are investing in green energy to power their operations.

Vehicle emissions are also a high cause of pollutants, and Australia’s low uptake of electric cars could account for greater exhaust emissions.

Renewable energy in the home can be easy

If you’re eager to encourage Australia to reduce emissions, there’s no better place to start than your own home!

Our renewable energy FAQs answers common questions about green power and getting it in your home, or you can read our guide on installing solar panels at your household. Rooftop solar is now the second-largest power generation source by capacity in the country as many Aussie households reduce their carbon footprint.

Sponsoring a portion of your energy usage in the form of renewables pumped back into the grid is another option for those who aren’t comfortable with their own electricity being powered by renewables.

With a number of large-scale renewable energy projects underway in Australia and the AEMO aiming to be able to support 100% renewables on the grid by 2025, we’re on the right track to see a drop in emissions in the coming years.

Looking to switch and save on energy? Our energy hub lets you find providers and plans in your area, or you can use the handy tool below.