Determine the most effective way to create as much renewable energy as possible, within the earliest time frame, and locally where possible.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA

Population
4,920,970 (2015)

GDP
291.5 billion USD (2014)

Project area
Renewable Energy

Share of emissions from fossil fuels in New South Wales region
79% of all GHG emissions

THE PROJECT

The City of Sydney has a target of net-zero emissions for the local government area by 2050, and for 50% renewable electricity by 2030. Today, the grid is around 15% renewable. Sydney, like many other cities, is looking to progress renewable energy locally and overseas, such as through bulk purchases, subsidies and other incentives. Acknowledging that early action is required to stimulate the market for renewable energy (and reduce emissions sooner), the City has established a fund of $10M AUD ($7.6M USD). The City Solutions Platform (CSP) will assist in determining the most effective way to use the fund to create as much renewable energy as possible, within the earliest time frame, and locally where possible.

The Environmental Action 2016-2021 is currently on public exhibition and proposes new and updated targets and states that renewable energy, energy efficiency and better buildings will make the largest contribution to this target. In the absence of new policies, investment opportunities or technology trends, Sydney anticipates the grid to be around 23-24 per cent renewable by 2030. This means there is a significant shortfall to reach their target. Today the grid is around 15% renewable. Sydney, like many other cities, is looking to progress renewable energy locally and overseas, such as through bulk purchases, subsidies and other incentives. Acknowledging that early action is required to stimulate the market for renewable energy (and reduce emissions sooner), the City has established a fund of $10M AUD ($7.6M USD).