ACT Government Draft Sustainable Energy Policy 2010–2020

8/14/2019 ACT Government Draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020

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DRAFT SUSTAINABLE ENERGY POLICY 20102020

December 2009


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Australian Capital Territory, Canberra 2009

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10. OUTCOME NINE: ENSURE A SECURE, RELIABLE AND DIVERSE ENERGY SUPPLY 27Where are we now? 27What are we going to do? 27

11. OUTCOME TEN: FOSTER THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT OF THE CLEAN ECONOMY 29Where are we now? 29

What are we going to do? 29

12. SUMMARY OF ACTIONS 3113. CONCLUSION AND CONSULTATION: A WAY FORWARD 34


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Drat Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 1

MINISTERS INTRODUCTION

The manner in which Canberrans respond to the challenge of climate change will be the defininglegacy of this generation.

Energy consumption is fundamental to our quality of life. Energy powers our homes and schools, heatsand cools our workplaces and hospitals and transports us in cars, buses and planes.

However, the way we produce and consume energy is unsustainable. It is now accepted that human-induced greenhouse gas emissions are polluting the earths atmosphere and leading to dangerousclimate change. Burning fossil fuels is a major contributor to climate change.

In response, the ACT Government has committed to the ACT achieving zero net greenhouse gasemissions by 2060. The measures to achieve this outcome will be guided by the overarching frameworkoutlined in the Canberra Plan: Toward Our Second Century and included in the final Sustainable EnergyPolicy 20102020 and Action Plan 2 ofWeathering the Change.

Delivering a carbon neutral ACT is only possible with a sustainable energy policy. A progressive energypolicy must provide for environment and climate protection while ensuring sustainable prosperity, socialequity and energy security. At the heart of this policy is a massive boost to energy effi ciency and greateruse of renewable energies.

The ACTs sustainable energy policy integrates energy policy objectives of ensuring secure, reliable,

diverse and equitable supplies of energy with climate change objectives to reduce greenhouse gasemissions from energy use. The ACT will be innovating and leading by greening and developing theACTs economy for a sustainable and climate-friendly future.

I encourage you to read the draft and make a submission. All submissions will be considered in thedevelopment of the ACTs final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020. It is only with input from thecommunity that the ACT Government will be able to best respond to our future energy needs achieving a vision of sustainable energy and zero net greenhouse gas emissions.

Simon Corbell MLAMinister for EnergyMinister for the Environment, Climate Change and Water


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A SUSTAINABLE ENERGY POLICY1.

Why do we need a sustainable energy policy in the ACT?

Human-induced global warming is the greatest and most urgent threat confronting humanity.Combating climate change means a drastic reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases. In response, theACT Government has adopted a Territory-wide target of zero net greenhouse gas emissions by 2060.

This commitment will require the Territory to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions to the maximumextent possible and offset any residual emissions by undertaking or investing in accredited carbonoffset projects (such as reforestation). The end result is no net greenhouse gas emissions (sometimesreferred to as carbon neutrality).

Producing energy from burning fossil fuels is the major source of greenhouse gases. Therefore, effectiveclimate protection is impossible without a sustainable energy policy.

Clearly the key components of a sustainable energy policy must be built around a fundamentalreconsideration of the way in which we produce and consume energy.

Sustainability has three principal elements environmental, economic and social (the so-called triplebottom line). This energy policy has to address all three.

Environmental is obvious mitigating the damaging effects of emissions on the environment isfundamental to our sustainable future.

The ACT Governments commitment to a sustainable Canberra clearly embraces a prosperous economybuilt on enduring foundations. All government polices must seek to enhance the growth of a cleaneconomy (i.e. a low carbon economy).

Energy policy also has strong linkages with social policy. The certainty of higher energy prices, as thecosts of environmentally damaging emissions are gradually included in prices for fossil fuels, such asthrough the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme (CPRS), makes energy policy one of themost challenging social issues of today. To be a fair and just society it is important all ACT residents andbusinesses have the ability to meet their energy requirements without undue financial stress. The focuson energy effi ciency in this policy, for example, clearly has a major social component as it will result inlife-long reductions in energy bills for households and businesses. The release of this draft offers theACT community an opportunity to provide input into the way in which the ACT will respond to these

challenges.

How does this policy ft with the Governments other policies?

The final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 will be informed by comments on the draft and willbe a major element of the ACT Governments Climate Change Strategy Weathering the Change. TheGovernment has announced it will revise the Weathering the Change strategy early in 2010 and developits associated Action Plan 2. The key actions from this policy will be incorporated into Action Plan 2.In that way Canberrans will have a single comprehensive and holistic Action Plan that contains all theactions critical to achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.


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Where are we now?

The ACT is small (second only to the Northern Territory) with a resident population of approximately350,000 (1.6 per cent of Australias population).1

The ACT produces about 4 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year from four main sources:

64 per cent from electricity generation (which occurs outside the ACTs borders but is included

given the electricity is consumed in the ACT);

24 per cent from transport fuels;

9 per cent from natural gas use; and

3 per cent from waste.

In 200506, the ACTs per capita emissions were approximately 12 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent,which, while lower than any other state or territory, is increasing at a greater rate than national percapita emissions.2 While overall ACT per capita emissions are low, this is in part due to the lack of largeindustry in the ACT. On a per household basis, the ACT has relatively high emissions although this is inlarge part due to larger heating requirements in the ACT relative to elsewhere in Australia.

The ACT receives approximately 99 per cent of its electricity from the national electricity grid which issupplied by more than 200 major generators. Through the grid, the ACT is able to access the full rangeof sources including electricity from coal-fired power stations, gas-fired power stations, wind turbinesand solar facilities, although most of the electricity in the grid at present comes from coal. Figure 1.1shows the location of major generators in Australia.

Figure 1.1: Location o Australian electricity generators

1 ACT Treasury, 2008,Australian Demographic Statistics September Quarter 2008.2 Pitt & Sherry, ACT Greenhouse Gas Inventory Series 2006, May 2009.

Source: Australian Energy Regulator 2008, State o the Energy Market 2008, p 58.


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Without action the ACTs emissions will increase, due predominantly to increases in the ACTspopulation. Figure 1.2 shows the business-as-usual emissions projections for the ACT given currentpolicy settings (including the Commonwealths Renewable Energy Target scheme but excluding theproposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme).

Figure 1.2: ACT business-as-usual emission projections (existing policy baseline)

Sustainable energy policy outcomes

The final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 will deliver tangible outcomes consistent with itsoverall objective of contributing to a carbon neutral ACT by 2060. For discussion in the draft, theACT has developed the following indicative list of policy outcomes, as a result of actions by both theCommonwealth and ACT Governments to indicate what is necessary to achieve a reduction in ACTemissions of between 2540 per cent relative to 1990 levels. These outcomes will be finalised in early

2010 in tandem with the development of greenhouse gas reduction targets for inclusion in Weatheringthe Change Action Plan 2. The targets once finalised will be in addition to (but compatible with) thoseadopted in the Governments response to the Interim Report of the Legislative Assemblys inquiry onACT greenhouse gas reduction targets in which it adopted 1990 as the base year, a peaking of percapita emissions in 2013 and carbon neutrality by 2060.

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

2007

2009

2011

2013

2015

2017

2019

2021

2023

2025

2027

2029

2031

2033

2035

2037

2039

2041

2043

2045

2047

2049

tonnesCO2e

Source: Department of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water.


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By 2020 (reductions relative to 2020 business-as-usual emission levels):

Energy effi ciency measures will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by at least1.10 per cent.*

Increased distributed generation will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by2.5 per cent.*

Transport initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to 3 per cent,3.representing a 10 per cent reduction in transport-based emissions.*

Waste initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1 per cent,4.

representing a 25 per cent reduction in waste-based emissions.*

The ACT Government will aim to be carbon neutral, reducing ACT greenhouse5.gas emissions by up to 5 per cent.*

The ACT will aim to use renewable energy for at least 25 per cent of all6.electricity consumption (with an interim target of 15 per cent by 2012).*

Customer information and choice will be significantly enhanced.7.

Low-income and vulnerable energy customers will be assisted.8.

Energy supply will be secure, reliable and diverse.9.

Clean job growth and industry development will be promoted in a diverse10.low carbon economy.

* The percentage target to be contained in the final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 will be informed by commentson the draft and an assessment of the cost effectiveness (environmental, economic and social) of individual measures inmeeting the ACT s soon to be adopted greenhouse gas targets.

Measures of the degree outlined above are necessary to contribute to the ACT reducing its greenhousegas emissions in 2020 by between 2540 per cent from 1990 levels. A 2540 per cent reduction in

emissions is the range recommended by the United Nations Framework Convention on ClimateChange (UNFCCC). Such a reduction is also consistent with Recommendation 5 in the Interim Report ofthe Legislative Assemblys inquiry on ACT greenhouse gas reduction targets to reduce emissions by 40per cent by 2020. A reduction of between 2540 per cent from 1990 levels is equivalent to a 5565 percent reduction relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions.

The individual measures to be contined in the final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 will beinformed by comment on the draft and assessed for their potential contribution to meeting theACTs soon to be adopted greenhouse gas emission reduction targets balanced with the need toensure that cost-effectiveness and social equity are considered (as noted in Recommendation 4 of theGovernments response to the Interim Report of the Legislative Assemblys inquiry on ACT greenhousegas reduction targets).


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2. OUTCOME ONE: INCREASED ENERGY EFFICIENCY

There are significant and increasing opportunities for Canberrans to reduce energy consumption andtherefore greenhouse gas emissions through energy effi ciency measures. These measures includeimproving the energy effi ciency of housing and building stock and the upgrade and replacement of oldappliances. Most energy effi ciency measures are cost-effective in their own right although up-front costsare sometimes a deterrent. In addition to these technical solutions, there are significant gains to be madethrough behavioural change.

Figure 2.1 shows an indicative greenhouse gas abatement cost curve, which provides informationon potential emission savings and the order in which measures should be undertaken, starting withthe most cost-effective measures towards the left of the graph and gradually moving towards themeasures on the right of the graph as the more cost-effective measures are exhausted. Energy effi ciencymeasures generally lie at the left of the graph, below the line, which indicates their implementationoffers overall net benefits. Energy effi ciency measures typically include programs such as water heating,lighting effi ciency, stand-by power savings, refrigeration effi ciencies, heating and cooling effi ciency andventilation improvements.

Figure 2.1: Indicative greenhouse gas abatement cost curve

Source: McKinsey Australia Climate Change Initiative.


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Reduced demand for electricity as a result of effi ciency improvements will also improve the reliability ofthe network through reduced loads. Energy effi ciency will not only reduce energy consumption,and therefore lower customer bills, but may also create job opportunities for those involved indelivering the required energy effi ciency services.

Where are we now?

The ACT Government has a strong record in promoting energy effi ciency in the community.

The ACT Government, through the ACT Planning and Land Authority, pursues cost-effectiveimprovements to building performance standards through the Building Code of Australia.

For example, all new houses are now required to be built to a five star energy effi ciency rating. A fivestar rated dwelling represents a theoretical energy reduction of 70 per cent required for space heatingand cooling over a one star rated dwelling.

The ACT Government has been increasing the minimum energy performance of appliances, such as airconditioners, incrementally.

In addition, the ACT Government administers a number of programs aimed at improving energyeffi ciency, such as the:

Home Energy Advice Team a service that provides free advice on reducing energy;

ACT Energy Wise a program that undertakes home energy audits and provides rebates;Home Energy Action Kits home use kits for monitoring domestic energy consumption which are

available for loan from ACT Public Libraries;

ACTSmart Rebates and Assistance a one-stop-shop and website for consumers to access

ACT Government rebates and assistance; and

City Switch, Business Smart, Offi ce Smart and the Energy Effi ciency Fund programs which work to

improve energy effi ciency and reduce waste in buildings.

What are we going to do?

By 2020, energy effi ciency measures will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by at least 10per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions.

The ACT Government will aim to:

introduce in 2010 legislation that will require energy businesses to identify and provide1.energy effi ciency products and services to ACT customers, with priority given tolow-income and other disadvantaged households; and

adopt an active policy of implementing energy effi ciency reforms arising from the National2.Partnership Agreement on Energy Effi ciency.


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Energy E ciency Improvement legislation

The ACT Government will in 2010 consider a scheme to require energy businesses to pursue energyeffi ciency measures in the ACT to meet mandated emission reduction targets. Energy businesses arebest placed to assist consumers in the implementation of energy effi ciency programs and measures.

The scheme under consideration will be based on that developed initially in the United Kingdomknown as the Carbon Emissions Reduction Target (CERT) scheme, and similar schemes in operationin South Australia (the Residential Energy Effi ciency Scheme), Victoria (the Victorian Energy Effi ciencyTarget) and New South Wales (the Energy Savings Scheme).

Such schemes work by placing an obligation on energy businesses to achieve reductions in emissionsthrough approved measures. Approved measures may include:

Lighting Draught proofing

Showerheads (and hence water heating) Fridges and freezer replacement

Ceiling and wall insulation Heating and cooling systems

The ACT scheme under consideration may include a focus on low-income households such as thatwhich exists in the United Kingdom and South Australian schemes, although this would not precludeall household consumers having access to the scheme. This would assist low-income householdsin achieving the benefits of energy effi ciency. In addition, an assessment of including businesses, as

occurs in New South Wales, will be undertaken.

Implementation o National Energy E ciency reorms

The National Partnership Agreement on Energy Effi ciency (NPA-EE) is an agreement between all stateand territory governments to implement a range of energy effi ciency measures aimed at improving theeffi ciency of appliances and home, business and government buildings. The 37 measures cover fourbroad areas:

assisting households and businesses transition to a low-carbon future;

reducing impediments to the uptake of energy effi ciency;

making buildings more effi cient; andGovernment working in partnership and leading the way. 3

Implementation responsibility rests with individual jurisdictions.

The ACT Government believes there are a range of these measures which offer opportunities for theACT to extend, expand or bring forward the national implementation date:

governments to significantly improve the environmental performance of the buildings they

own or occupy;

3 A full list of the measures can be found at: http://www.coag.gov.au/coag_meeting_outcomes/2009-07-02/docs/Energy_effi ciency_measures_table.pdf.


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showcase and promote energy effi ciency technologies and energy conservation measures;

address the opportunities that can be derived from building lot or precinct level layout thatsupport appropriate solar access to living areas, solar hot water, and solar photovoltaic systems for

new buildings;

increase the energy effi ciency of street lighting;

provide support to businesses to assist them in improving their energy effi ciency and to make

informed choices regarding energy effi ciency by addressing barriers;

states and territories to audit the energy effi ciency of their public housing stocks;

provide and promote information on energy effi cient housing options; and

place greater emphasis on energy effi ciency as part of broader improvements to the sustainableprocurement practices of governments.

These measures will be further analysed early in 2010 as part of the preparation of Action Plan 2 underthe ACTs climate change strategy, Weathering the Change. Where there are clear benefits in expandingor accelerating the implementation of these measures, consideration will be given to having theseincorporated into both the sustainable energy policy and the Action Plan.

In preparing a submission on the drat Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020, your views are sought.

How much should we rely on energy e ciency in moving towards zero net emissions?

Building on national reorms, what else could be done to encourage energy e ciency?


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3. OUTCOME TWO: CLEANER GENERATION

Greenhouse gas emissions from electricity generation must be reduced. As part of the shift tolow-emission energy generation, gas-fired generation has an important transitional role to play givenits lower greenhouse gas intensity relative to traditional coal-fired power stations.

There are significant opportunities to drive cleaner generation technology, such as wind and solar,through national energy market reforms as well as ACT-specific policies (such as the GovernmentsFeed-in Tariff scheme). Driving change through the national energy market reforms process is a highpriority for the ACT given that approximately 99 per cent of the ACTs electricity is imported from NewSouth Wales and other states in the National Electricity Market. Figure 3.1 shows the type of generationcapacity in the National Electricity Market.

Figure 3.1: Scheduled generation capacity by uel source 2008

Where are we now?

The ACT, in conjunction with New South Wales, developed the first effective greenhouse gas reductionscheme the Greenhouse Gas Abatement Scheme (GGAS). The scheme commenced on 1 January 2005and requires that energy retailers be involved in projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Thescheme will be phased out upon the introduction of a national emissions trading scheme.

The ACT Minister for Energy is a member of the Ministerial Council on Energy (MCE). Through this role,the ACT actively contributes to the development of national energy policy and market frameworks. TheMCE is actively driving an agenda to support renewable technologies.

Source: Australian Energy Regulator 2008, State o the Energy Market 2008, p 59.


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The ACT is an active participant in the MCE and national energy policy development. The MCE hasinstructed the Australian Energy Market Commission to undertake reviews in a range of matters. Thereviews include:

a Review of Energy Market Frameworks in Light of Climate Change Policies;

a Review of National Framework for Electricity Distribution Network Planning and Expansion; and

a Review of Demand Side Participation in the National Electricity Market.

The recommendations arising from these reviews are being considered by the MCE, withimplementation of agreed recommendations commencing in 2010.

The combination of these and other measures, such as the Australian Governments Renewable EnergyTarget and proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme, will ensure the development of cleaner

generation sources. Further to these developments, there is an increasing need for the ACT to play amore active role in encouraging cleaner generation capacity in the ACT and encouraging renewableenergy through purchase from the national grid.


By 2020, the ACT will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by 5 per cent relative to 2020business-as-usual emissions through distributed generation.

The ACT Government will:

consider requiring all new ACT greenfield developments and commercial buildings1.include a detailed assessment of the benefits and viability of distributed generation optionsas a default position; and

continue to be an active member in the development of national energy market reforms.2.

Distributed generation

Distributed generation refers to electricity generated close to where it is used and connected directlyto the distribution network. It has the potential to reduce costs associated with transmission (includinglosses). In addition, it has the potential through co-generation (electricity and heat) and tri-generation(electricity, heat and cooling) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower overall energy bills.Distributed generation also enhances security, reliability and diversity of energy supply.

Co-generation and tri-generation are likely to be most applicable at larger scales (e.g. hospital,commercial, apartment blocks and new suburb level in developments such as Eastlake and Molonglo).This is because suffi cient scale and appropriate infrastructure (e.g. to pipe heating and cooling loads)are necessary. The construction of new buildings allows appropriate planning and avoids potentiallysignificant costs associated with retrofitting.


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Co-generation and tri-generation are typically powered by natural gas and offer benefits in avoidedenergy use as they reduce the need to specifically use energy for heating and cooling.

A requirement that all ACT greenfield developments and commercial buildings include a detailedassessment of the benefits and viability of distributed generation options as a default position wouldpotentially increase the volume of distributed energy in the ACT.

The ACT Government is also examining the feasibility of supporting the establishment of ademonstration project to trial the applicability of either co-generation or tri-generation technologyon a precinct-size scale, potentially in the new ACT Government Offi ce Block. The knowledge andexperience gained from the trial would inform future development decisions.

Barriers to the further uptake of distributed generation in private developments will also be

investigated with the intention of developing a streamlined application and approvals process.

Large scale low-emission generation capacity

The ACT has the potential to install a gas-fired power station. Gas-fired power stations produceconsiderably fewer emissions for the same amount of electricity generated than a traditionalcoal-fired power station. Gas-fired power stations currently produce power at lower prices and in amore predictable and flexible manner than renewable energy sources such as solar. In addition, gas-fired power generation can complement solar power capacity by acting as a back-up source of energyduring times of low sunlight as well as overnight.

Gas-fired power stations have an important transitional role to play in Australias move to less

greenhouse gas intensive energy sources while ensuring our energy requirements are met. Emissionsfrom gas-fired power stations may also reduce over coming years as natural gas is replaced with

alternatives such as biogas.

National Energy Market Reorms

The ACT will continue to support the MCE work program. Where beneficial, the ACT Governmentwill be a strong advocate within the MCE for progressive national policies which drive sustainabilityoutcomes. The ACTs ongoing involvement in these and building on other reforms (such as theproposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme and Renewable Energy Target) will assist Australia as awhole, as well as the ACT, to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining secure, reliableand diverse energy supplies.


What other options exist or cost-eective generation o cleaner electricity?

What is the easibility and potential take-up o distributed generation?

How can the ACT increase low-emission generation capacity in a cost-eective way?


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4. OUTCOME THREE: INCREASED RENEWABLE GENERATION

Renewable energy generation is the key to creating a sustainable energy supply for the future. Tosupport the development of this necessary technology, the renewable energy industry must beencouraged and promoted. This is occurring through both ACT and Australian Government policiessuch as feed-in tariffs and renewable energy targets.

While the ACT is not suitable for wind or wave-power generation, or large scale geothermal (givencurrent technologies), the ACT can support the development of such technologies through thepurchase of renewable energy (such as GreenPower) via the national grid.

Where are we now?

GreenPower is one of the most market effective ways of reducing emissions from electricity production.The ACT Government has already implemented a policy that electricity retailers must offer GreenPowerto new customers. Further, the ACT Government has increased its level of renewable electricitypurchases to 30 per cent.

The ACT introduced the most generous Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme in Australia on 1 March 2009. ByNovember 2009, the 1,000th Canberra household had installed solar panels.

The FiT is aimed at householders and small businesses and is available for solar and wind generation.Eligible generators receive a premium tariff for all of the electricity produced. The premium for systemsup to 10kW in size is currently 50.05c/kWh plus GST and for systems of up to 30kW in size the premiumis 40.04c/kWh plus GST. The FiT increases the volume of renewable electricity in the network andtherefore decreases emissions. The small renewable generators throughout the ACT are highly visibleand raise awareness in the community of the need to switch to more renewable energy sources. TheACT Government is considering a possible extension of the FiT to larger users.

On a larger scale, the ACT Government is undertaking a process to enable the construction of alarge-scale solar power facility in the ACT. The proposed facility would produce suffi cient power for atleast 10,000 homes (or 86,000 MWh/year).


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By 2020, the ACT will aim to use renewable energy for at least 25 per cent of all electricity consumption(with an interim target of 15 per cent by 2012).


consider mandating a requirement that electricity retailers provide additional volumes1.of GreenPower to assist the ACT meet its emission reduction targets, after consultation withindustry, households and stakeholders;

consider amending the existing Feed-in-Tariff Scheme in 2010 to encourage participation of2.renewable generators with a capacity in excess of 30 kW;

move to the next stage of the process during 2010 for the construction of an ACT-based3.large-scale solar power facility; and

leverage Australian Government initiatives to assist the development of renewable energy4.and increased customer information projects in the ACT.

GreenPower

Purchases of GreenPower will play a crucial role in reducing the ACTs emissions. GreenPower

is electricity produced from accredited renewable sources such as solar and wind. Every unit ofGreenPower purchased in the ACT contributes towards lowering the ACTs greenhouse gas emissions.

The ACT Government will consider placing a requirement on retailers to provide additional volumes ofGreenPower to assist in meeting ACT greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.

Feed-in Tari

The ACT Feed-in Tariff Scheme commenced on 1 March 2009 and is aimed at households and smallbusinesses. The Scheme promotes the take-up of distributed renewable energy generation by payinggenerators a Premium Price over and above regular retail rates for each and every unit of electricity

generated and fed into the local electricity grid. A facility limit of 30 kW currently applies.The Government is examining the economic, environmental and social implications of allowing access

to the Scheme by generators in excess of 30 kW. A Discussion Paper outlining a range of possible

models will be issued in late 2009 for public and industry comment with a view to an announcement

of the outcome and future directions by April 2010. Conclusions on the application of the FiT to larger

generators will be made in the context of decisions regarding the development of an ACT solar power

facility.


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Solar power acility

A large solar power facility would provide the first large-scale electricity generation capacity in theACT and be one of the first such facilities in Australia. Such a facility would increase the proportion ofrenewable electricity in the network, raise awareness of the need to shift to more renewable energysources and act as a demonstration project for Australian and international jurisdictions.

During 2010, the ACT Government will move to the next stage of its commitment to consider theconstruction of a privately owned and operated solar power facility, subject to technical and economiccriteria being satisfied. Considerations will also take into account Commonwealth proposals such asSolar Flagships.

Australian Government projects

The Australian Government is funding a range of demonstration projects. The ACT is actively seeking toleverage these projects where there are possible benefits to the ACT.

The two most relevant policies relate to:

Solar Flagships: a project aimed at increasing the solar generation capacity in Australia by

1,000 MWh; and

Smart Grid Smart City: a $100 million project aimed at demonstrating the benefits of investment

in smart grid technology such as smart meters, in-house displays and improved network

communication capabilities to assist in maintenance and reconnection following black-outs.


How can the ACT Government encourage greater purchase o GreenPower?

How much emphasis should the ACT place on renewable energy compared to non-renewable

sources o energy?

Should renewable energy be generated in the ACT or sourced rom interstate?

How should the Government encourage use and generation o renewable energy?


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5. OUTCOME FOUR: INCREASED CUSTOMER

INFORMATION AND CHOICE

Improvements in information and choice of products will allow consumers to make real and significantsavings in their energy consumption. Experience in the United Kingdom, where energy retailers areshifting from businesses simply trying to sell more energy into energy service businesses which activelyassist customers to reduce their energy consumption, provides an indication of what is possible.

Where are we now?

The ACT was the first Australian jurisdiction to introduce a mandatory point-of-sale residential energyeffi ciency disclosure scheme (the energy effi ciency star-rating program). This concept is now beingintroduced across Australia.

The ACT Government supports, subject to overall benefits, a roll-out of smart meters across the ACT.In deciding on the most appropriate time for a roll-out, it will consider the net benefits based on a trialunder way currently by ActewAGL and the results of a national cost-benefit analysis in 2012.

In an attempt to enhance the level of information received by customers, the ACT Government requiresthat electricity bills include information comparing consumption and resultant emissions with previousbills. The ACT Government also participates in national schemes requiring that specified appliances

display their energy performance, for example on fridges. In addition, the ACT Government hasprograms targeted at improving customer information including the:

ACTSmart Rebates and Assistance a one-stop-shop and website for consumers to access

ACT Government rebates and assistance;

Home Energy Advice Team a service that provides free advice on reducing energy;

ACT Energy Wise a program that undertakes home energy audits;

Home Energy Action Kits home use kits for monitoring domestic energy consumption, which are

available for loan from ACT Public Libraries; and

City Switch, Business Smart, Offi ce Smart and the Energy Effi ciency Fund programs which work toimprove energy effi ciency and reduce waste in buildings.


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By 2020, customer information and choice will be significantly enhanced.


consider fast-tracking the installation of smart meters into ACT households where it is1.demonstrated to be cost-effective to better assist residents manage their energy loads andmake more informed decisions about their energy consumption; and

increase customer choice by considering the removal of the regulated electricity tariff and2.thereby encourage new and innovative pricing and service arrangements.

Smart meters

Smart meters enable consumers to make informed decisions about their electricity usage. Smartmeters are meters with added functionality that provide consumers with greater information abouttheir energy consumption. Smart meters combined with in-house displays allow consumers to monitortheir usage in real time. Based on this additional information, consumers have a greater ability to makeinformed decisions regarding their energy use, and therefore potentially reduce consumption. The cost-effectiveness of smart meters is likely to rise over coming years as electricity costs increase.

ActewAGL is now trialling smart meters for electricity, gas and water. This trial is known as ProjectMIMI and is aimed at improving the understanding of the costs and potential benefits associatedwith smart metering, customer behavioural responses and identifying any change management andcommunication barriers to a full deployment of smart meters across the ACT. A national cost-benefitanalysis is also scheduled for 2012. The ACT Government will also consider trialling smart meters in itsown operations as part of the next whole-of-government electricity supply contract.

The ACT Government will consider whether to fast-track the roll-out of smart meters based on theevidence produced by the ActewAGL trial and the results of the national cost-benefit analysis.

Increasing customer choice by removing the regulated tari

Product choice is likely to be increased through the removal of regulated electricity tariffs, such as hasoccurred in the United Kingdom. The potential removal of the existing regulated electricity tariff willbe considered in the first half of 2010, with consideration given to it being replaced with a monitoringarrangement similar to that adopted in Victoria. Under this arrangement, the prices charged by retailersmust be published widely, be monitored, and price changes be limited to twice yearly.

A review of concession arrangements to ensure vulnerable customers are supported is underway and aGovernment decision will be made early in 2010. This will complement any decision on the removal ofthe regulated tariff. This matter is discussed further in the following section.


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The removal of the regulated tariff would increase the incentive for retailers to develop new andinnovative products for customers to choose from, such as the introduction of time-of-use tariffs.Time-of-use tariffs allow consumers to make savings by shifting their consumption into off-peakperiods, for example by choosing to run their washing machines and dishwashers overnight.


What impact does inormation and advice have on reducing energy consumption?

What should the Government be doing to increase customer inormation and choice?

I the regulated electricity tari is removed, what should the Government do to support

low-income and vulnerable customers?


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6. OUTCOME FIVE: MAINTAIN EQUITY

For the purposes of the Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020, the definition of equity to be adopted isfairness and the ability of all ACT residents to be able to meet their energy requirements without unduefinancial stress.

As Australian Government policies (e.g. the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme andRenewable Energy Target) as well as those of the ACT Government (zero net emissions) increasinglyshift energy generation from fossil-based to renewables, the price of energy in the short to mediumterm is expected to increase.

Minimisation of these cost pressures is a crucial consideration in the development of the ACTsSustainable Energy Policy 20102020, especially through measures that assist the community inreducing energy consumption and therefore energy bills.

Cost pressures will inevitably increase the need for Territory-funded concessions to low-income andvulnerable consumers.

Where are we now?

The ACT provides a generous Energy Concession, equal to $194.87 per annum, to consumers who holda Centrelink pension or healthcare card. At any one time there are over 22,000 households in the ACTreceiving the Energy Concession. The concession increases in the winter months to help with heating costs.

The ACT Government Concessions Portal is an internet-based one-stop-shop for concessions offered inthe Territory. The ACT Government has also developed ACTSmart a one-stop-shop for consumers togain information and apply for ACT Government water and energy effi ciency programs and rebates.

The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal promotes the socially equitable supply of energy by dealingwith hardship cases on a case-by-case basis.


Low-income and vulnerable energy customers will be assisted.


consider increasing the Energy Concession to a level commensurate with expected1.

energy price increases. Such an increase would immediately assist the more than

22,000 ACT households that receive this benefit each year;

consider the establishment of a mechanism by which percentage increases in energy2.

prices are automatically applied to the Energy Concession each year;

identify and consider implementing in each residential based program within ACTSmart a3.

specific benefit payable to low-income households in addition to the benefit already

available. This requirement would potentially flow through to any subsequent delivery of

programs under industry agreements; and

ensure that considerations regarding the Energy Effi ciency Improvement scheme include4.

a focus on low-income and vulnerable customers.


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Energy Concession and Indexation

The ACT Government is considering whether there is a need to increase the level of the energyconcession. These considerations will include an assessment of whether there is a requirement to have aone-off increase to bring the energy concession up to an appropriate level followed by the establishmentof a mechanism to link future increases in the energy concession to energy price increases.

In addition, the ACT Government is considering whether a review into eligibility requirements forreceipt of the energy concession is necessary. At present, there are approximately 22,000 eligiblehouseholds (approximately 15 per cent of all ACT households). Such a review may be necessary toensure the concessions remain targeted to support those most in need.

ACTSmart

When designing energy effi ciency programs the ACT Government will continue to focus attention onhow low-income households can access the programs. This may include a specific benefit payable tolow-income households in addition to the benefit available to the rest of the community to encouragea wider uptake of the Governments programs.

Energy E ciency Improvement scheme

In considering the development of an ACT Energy Effi ciency Improvement scheme, a focus on low-income households, similar to the United Kingdom and South Australian schemes, will be included.


How should the Government support low-income and vulnerable customers?


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7. OUTCOME SIX: REDUCED TRANSPORT EMISSIONS

Emissions from transport-related activities account for 24 per cent of total ACT emissions. Whilerecognising that the car will continue to play a crucial role in the transport needs of ACT residents dueto the way in which the city has been planned, there are significant opportunities to minimise thenumber of journeys and reduce emissions from those trips that must be undertaken.

Where are we now?

The ACT Government is developing the Sustainable Transport Action Plan 201016. The key target ofthe plan is that by 2026, 30 per cent of journeys to work will be made using sustainable modes, that is,public transport, cycling or walking. Achievement of this target will make a significant contribution toreducing the ACTs emissions from transport. In addition, investigations are continuing into the switchto more effi cient and less greenhouse gas intensive fuel sources such as the use of diesel and naturalgas to power buses.

Electric vehicles offer an alternative to the internal combustion engine. In response to ACT Governmentpolicies encouraging green technology, Canberra has been chosen as the preferred location for theroll-out of infrastructure to support Australias first electric car network.


By 2020, transport initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to 3 per centrelative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. This represents a 10 per cent reduction in transport-basedemissions relative to 2020 business-as-usual transport-based emissions.


finalise the Sustainable Transport Plan 20102016 and work actively to achieve the1.

targeted increases in sustainable journeys;

encourage the uptake of low-emission vehicles through consideration of financial and2.

other incentives;

actively support the introduction of electric vehicles in the ACT;3.

consider a trial of electric vehicles to establish their appropriateness as ACT Government4.

fleet vehicles;

promote eco-driving; and5.

encourage rail freight.6.


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Sustainable Transport Plan

Only with an integrated transport plan that brings together transport, land planning, environmentaland social concerns will a truly sustainable city be developed. The finalisation of the SustainableTransport Plan 201016 is a crucial step in achieving this aim.

The ACT Government will continue discussions with the National Capital Authority regarding theintroduction of fair paid parking arrangements in the Parliamentary Triangle and Russell. This will encourageall commuters to consider alternative transport options such as public transport, cycling and walking.

Low-emission vehicles

The ACT Government will actively support the shift to low-emission (and eventually zero-emission)

vehicles. The ACT Government will encourage this transition through further consideration of initiativessuch as preferential parking and registration fees for low greenhouse gas producing vehicles.

Electric vehicles

The ACT, along with Copenhagen and Tel Aviv, has been selected as a site for the roll-out of electricvehicle support infrastructure. The infrastructure will include battery change-over facilities as well asplug-in arrangements. The roll-out of this infrastructure, with the ACT Government providing planningand regulatory assistance, will see the ACT at the forefront of the shift to electric vehicles.

Further, the ACT Government will support the introduction of electric vehicles by considering a trial (assoon as feasible) of the vehicles as fleet vehicles, including their infrastructure requirements.

Eco-driving

Fuel consumption can be reduced significantly through the use of eco-friendly driving techniques. TheACT Government will consider developing and implementing an eco-driving program in the ACT.

Encourage rail reight

Rail freight is in many circumstances a cost-effective and relatively low greenhouse gas emitting form oftransport. Where possible, the ACT will support the further development of rail freight, including beingan advocate in national transport forums.


What do you think should be the Governments priorities or reducing the amount o energy

used in transport?

What could the Government do that would lead to you using less energy when you travel?


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8. OUTCOME SEVEN: REDUCED EMISSIONS AND

GENERATE RENEWABLE ENERGY FROM WASTE

Emissions from waste represent approximately 3 per cent of the ACTs total emissions. These emissionsare predominantly the result of methane escaping landfill as organic waste decomposes.

Once separated from the general waste stream:

food waste can be processed to produce renewable energy and compost for farm and horticultural use; and

organic waste including food, wood and paper can be processed through a thermal conversionfacility to generate renewable energy. Thermal conversion technologies also have potential to

produce biochar, a stable form of carbon that can then be sequestered.

Where are we now?

Methane from the Mugga Lane Resource Management Centre is captured and used to generateapproximately 23,000 MWh of electricity each year. A similar facility in Belconnen producesapproximately 5,000 MWh. This reduces the ACTs overall emissions by converting the methane toenergy (and thereby avoiding the equivalent of 125,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions).


By 2020, waste initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1 per cent relativeto 2020 business-as-usual emissions. This represents a 25 per cent reduction in waste-based emissionsrelative to 2020 business-as-usual waste-based emissions.


investigate ways, as part of its review of the development of a Future Waste Strategy,1.to separate organic waste and options for recycling organic waste to reduce emissions

from landfill, generate renewable energy, and sequester carbon. This work may lead to

the tendering of new waste recovery and recycling facilities with the private sector in

2010.


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Waste options

The ACT Government is investigating options to recover resources from waste and, where it providesthe highest value use, direct a portion of the sorted wastes to a thermal conversion facility. Additionalprocessing and recovery of resources may significantly reduce the ACTs emissions from landfill, andcreate an additional source of renewable energy and process for carbon sequestration (biochar). Oncethese investigations have been completed the Government will consider initiating an expressionsof interest process so that the private sector could be engaged in developing the most appropriatecommercial solution.

A Future Waste Strategy is being developed in 2010 which will improve management of waste toprovide greater climate change benefits.


How important is it to minimise organic waste to landfll?

Should waste be used to generate renewable energy, rather than going to landfll?


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9. OUTCOME EIGHT: ACT GOVERNMENT CARBON NEUTRALITY

The ACT Government will lead by example in achieving carbon neutrality in its own operations.

Where are we now?

The ACT Government currently sources 30 per cent of its electricity needs from renewable sources.The ACT Government has also been working towards upgrading the energy performance of its offi ces,schools, public housing and street lighting.

The ACT Government is assessing the construction of a benchmark green offi ce building for its ownuse. A decision will be made in 2010.


By 2020, the ACT Government will aim to be carbon neutral, reducing ACT greenhouse gas emissionsby up to 5 per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions.


develop and implement a Carbon Neutral ACT Government Framework as part of its1.

revised ACT Climate Change Strategy Weathering the Change and Action Plan 2.

Carbon Neutral ACT Government Framework

The ACT Government will be developing strategies and actions to improve energy effi ciency andincrease use of renewable energy in the wide array of ACT Government functions and services, fromoffi ce-based policy and program delivery, to schools and hospitals through to municipal services suchas street lighting and waste collection.

The Framework will identify cost-effective approaches including: whole-of-government strategies, forexample in accommodation, procurement and fleet management; sectoral strategies, for examplefor hospitals, schools, and emergency services; and agency-specific strategies, for example theimplementation of resource management plans and staff engagement.

Enhanced accountability through monitoring and reporting will be a priority including through agencycarbon budgets.


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The ACT Government will work over the coming years to achieve carbon neutrality in its ownoperations and make the lessons learnt and challenges faced available publicly to assist others inmaking the transition.


What are the benefts o greener ACT Government buildings?

How important is it or the ACT Government to show leadership in achieving carbon neutrality?


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10. OUTCOME NINE: ENSURE A SECURE, RELIABLE AND

DIVERSE ENERGY SUPPLYSecurity of supply is the assurance that the overall energy system is capable of supplying energy as andwhen customers require it.

Reliability of supply is the assurance that the system can be kept in balance between the volumedemanded and the supply available so that blackouts or shortages do not occur.

Diversity of supply is achieved by having multiple sources of energy supply. Increased diversity canincrease security and reliability given that the reliance on any one energy source or technology isreduced. In addition, diversity in location of energy generation capacity increases security and reliabilityas a variety of locations reduces the reliance on any one transportation network connection.

Where are we now?

The ACT Government has a single secure connection to the National Electricity Market and has appliedthe National Electricity Law setting relevant reliability standards.


The ACT Government will ensure an energy supply that is secure, reliable and diverse.


expedite the construction of a second electricity connection point to the national1.

electricity grid. The connection will be operational by 1 July 2011;

support the introduction of increasing levels of distributed and large-scale low-emission2.

generation capacity in the ACT; and

continue to participate in reforms that strengthen the national grid.3.

Second connection point

A second connection point at Willamsdale in the south of the ACT will increase the security of the ACTsconnection to the National Electricity Market. The connection is expected to be completed in 2011 andthe ACT Government will expedite this process if possible.


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Distributed and large-scale low-emission generation capacity

Increases in distributed generation (including co-generation and tri-generation) as well as theconstruction of large-scale generation capacity would contribute significantly to security, reliability anddiversity of supply.

Continue national energy market reorms

The continual evolution and integration of Australias energy markets will support security and reliabilityof electricity in the ACT. The ACT will continue to promote and work towards the integration ofAustralias energy markets.


What should the ACT Government do to encourage distributed generation and

large-scale, low-emission generation in the ACT?

What energy market reorms should the ACT be driving?


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11. OUTCOME TEN: FOSTER THE FURTHER DEVELOPMENT

OF THE CLEAN ECONOMY

Climate change and an increased focus on renewable and low-emission energy sources will createsignificant opportunities for the development of new businesses and industries and associatedemployment prospects within the Territory and surrounding region.

A Clean Economy can be defined as one in which jobs are characterised as being:

entirely new and created in response to an identifiable new clean (i.e. low-carbon) technology

initiative; or

an infusion of clean (sometimes referred to as green) practices within existing jobs (changing theway we do things to make them more sustainable).

The success of the ACT Governments Feed-in Tariff and the potential implementation of aggressiveenergy effi ciency programs will contribute to existing skills and a development of new skills in theworkforce. Along with an infusion of capital supporting these activities, this offers the opportunity forCanberra to create a new industry base.

Where are we now?

The ACT Government, through the Business and Industry Development branch of the Chief MinistersDepartment, delivers a range of business programs to support the growth and development of localcompanies. These programs have a focus on the small and micro business sectors operating in theTerritory. The ACT Governments vocational education provider, the Canberra Institute of Technology,has developed specialist trades courses for energy effi ciency, such as a new course for plumbers oninstalling and maintaining solar hot water systems. In addition, programs such as the Feed-in Tariffsupport new clean jobs in the short term such as solar panel installers.


Clean job growth and industry development will be promoted in a diverse low-carbon economy.


leverage off the wide-ranging research and work already undertaken into the1.

opportunities available to Canberra given its particular mix of information technology (IT)

skills, research institutions (especially its world-renowned research centres focusing on

clean energy technology) and relatively high education and income levels; and

work with companies and sectors to develop business opportunities.2.


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Research into opportunities

The ACT is well placed to take advantage of the opportunities presented by a shift to more renewableenergy sources. The ACT Government will undertake further research into the opportunities availableto Canberra given its particular mix of IT skills, research institutions and relatively high education andincome levels. An analysis of immediate opportunities will be included in the Feed-in Tariff Stage 2Discussion Paper.

Business opportunities

The ACT Government supports business development opportunities. This support will continue andtakes many forms including:

development of local industry capability;

development of research capability;

opportunities for collaboration between local industry and local research and what is needed to

promote collaboration;

leveraging Australian Government green tech and clean tech industry development programs and

their reach and relevance to the ACT; and

skill availability and skill requirements for green businesses.


What should the ACT take advantage o in developing a clean economy?

What benefts will there be or the ACT becoming a clean economy?

What should the Government do to encourage a clean economy?


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12. SUMMARY OF ACTIONS

The ACTs Sustainable Energy Policy Outcomes

By 2020:

Energy e ciency measures will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by at1.

least 10 per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. The ACT Government

will:

1.1. aim to introduce in 2010 legislation that will require energy businesses to identify and provideenergy effi ciency products and services to ACT customers, with priority given to low-incomeand other disadvantaged households; and

adopt an active policy of implementing energy effi ciency reforms arising from the National1.1.Partnership Agreement on Energy Effi ciency.

2. Increased distributed generation will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by

5 per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. The ACT Government will:

2.1. consider requiring all new ACT greenfield developments and commercial buildings to includea detailed assessment of the benefits and viability of distributed generation options as a default

position; and

2.3. continue to be an active member in the development of national energy market reforms.

3. The ACT will aim to use renewable energy or at least 25 per cent o all electricity

consumption (with an interim target o 15 per cent by 2012). The ACT Government will:

3.1. consider mandating a requirement that electricity retailers provide additional volumes ofGreenPower to assist the ACT meet its emission reduction targets, after consultation withindustry, households and stakeholders;

3.2. consider amending the existing Feed-in-Tariff Scheme in 2010 to encourage participation of

renewable generators with a capacity in excess of 30 kW;3.3. move to the next stage of the process during 2010 for the construction of an ACT-based

large-scale solar power facility; and

3.4. leverage Australian Government initiatives to assist the development of renewable energy andincreased customer information projects in the ACT.

4. Customer inormation and choice will be signifcantly enhanced. The ACT Government will:

4.1. consider fast-tracking the installation of smart meters into ACT households where it is demonstratedto be cost-effective to better assist residents manage their energy loads and make more informed

decisions about their energy consumption; and

4.2. increase customer choice by considering the removal of the regulated electricity tariff and therebyencourage new and innovative pricing and service arrangements.


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5. Low-income and vulnerable energy customers will be assisted. The ACT Government will:

5.1. consider increasing the Energy Concession to a level commensurate with expected energyprice increases. Such an increase would immediately assist the more than 22,000 ACThouseholds that receive this benefit each year;

5.2. consider the establishment of a mechanism by which percentage increases in energy pricesare automatically applied to the Energy Concession each year;

5.3. identify and consider implementing in each residential based program within ACTSmart aspecific benefit payable to low-income households in addition to the benefit already available.This requirement would potentially flow through to any subsequent delivery of programsunder industry agreements; and

5.4. ensure that considerations regarding the Energy Effi ciency Improvement scheme include a

focus on low-income and vulnerable customers.

6. Transport initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to

3 per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. This represents a 10 per cent

reduction in transport-based emissions relative to 2020 business-as-usual transport-

based emissions. The ACT Government will:

6.1. finalise the Sustainable Transport Plan 20102016 and work actively to achieve the targetedincreases in sustainable journeys;

6.2. encourage the uptake of low-emission vehicles through consideration of financial and other

incentives;6.3. actively support the introduction of electric vehicles in the ACT;

6.4. consider a trial of electric vehicles to establish their appropriateness as ACT Governmentfleet vehicles;

6.5. promote eco-driving; and

6.6. encourage rail freight.

7. Waste initiatives will aim to reduce ACT greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1 per cent

relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. This represents a 25 per cent reduction in

waste-based emissions relative to 2020 business-as-usual waste-based emissions. TheACT Government will:

7.1. investigate ways, as part of its review of the development of a Future Waste Strategy, toseparate organic waste and options for recycling organic waste to reduce emissions fromlandfill, generate renewable energy and sequester carbon. This work will lead to the tenderingof new waste recovery and recycling facilities with the private sector in 2010.


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8. The ACT Government will aim to be carbon neutral, reducing ACT greenhouse gas

emissions by up to 5 per cent relative to 2020 business-as-usual emissions. The ACTGovernment will:

8.1. develop and implement a Carbon Neutral ACT Government Framework as part of its revisedACT Climate Change Strategy Weathering the Change and Action Plan 2.

9. Energy supply will be secure, reliable and diverse. The ACT Government will:

9.1. expedite the construction of a second electricity connection point to the national electricitygrid. The connection will be operational by 1 July 2011;

9.2. support the introduction of increasing levels of distributed and large-scale low-emissiongeneration capacity in the ACT; and

9.3. continue to participate in reforms that strengthen the national grid.

10. Clean job growth and industry development will be promoted in a diverse low-carbon

economy. The ACT Government will:

10.1. leverage off the wide-ranging research and work already undertaken into the opportunitiesavailable to Canberra given its particular mix of IT skills, research institutions (especially itsworld-renowned research centres focusing on clean energy technology) and relatively higheducation and income levels; and

10.2. work with companies and sectors to develop business opportunities.


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13. CONCLUSION AND CONSULTATION: A WAY FORWARD

This draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 presents a range of policies under considerationby the ACT Government in its move towards zero net emissions. The specific targets in the draftSustainable Energy Policy 20102020 will be subject to further review to take into account researchthat has been commissioned by the ACT Government. This review will include comments from thepublic consultation and an assessment of the cost and benefits of individual measures (environmental,economic and social). This will ensure the final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 contains robustand realistic policies and targets against which progress can be measured.

The ACT Government encourages members of the public to provide comments on the policiescontained in this draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020. Members of the public are also

encouraged to provide additional policy initiatives.

The process will follow this timetable:

Milestone Date

Release draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 December 2009

Submissions on draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 due March 2010

Release of final Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 Mid 2010

How do I make a submission?

Written submissions are preferred. However, not all interested parties are in a position nor have theresources to formally submit their views in this way. As such, comments may be provided verbally tothe Sustainable Energy Policy Secretariat.

In the case of written submissions the following guidelines apply.

There is no fixed format or length for your submission. However, MS Word-compatible format

is preferred.

Email constitutes a valid written submission.You may use your submission to convey facts and opinions or to make arguments or

recommendations.

The boxes seeking your views should be treated as a guide. You may respond directly to the questions

posed or provide other comments you consider relevant. You need not address all the questions

posed in the boxes.

It would be appreciated if submissions over 4 pages additionally contain a summary of issues

raised in the text.

The ACT Government is unable to assist with any costs incurred by individuals or organisations in

preparing their submission.


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Are submissions authenticated?

Anonymous submissions or comments will not be accepted. To enable your submission to beauthenticated you should include details of:

your name and address and (if available) your email contact;

whose views you are representing. If you are writing on behalf of an organisation you should

clearly identify it and the position of authority within that organisation that you occupy.

A submission may be rejected if it:

is deemed to fall outside the scope of the draft Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020;

is purporting to be on behalf of an organisation, the authenticity of which cannot reasonably be

established; or

contains potentially defamatory statements about named individuals or organisations.

What happens to my submission?

All submissions will, subject to confirmation of authenticity, be considered in preparing the finalSustainable Energy Policy 20102020, treated as public documents and displayed upon theDepartment of the Environment, Climate Change, Energy and Water (DECCEW) website.

The website is at www.environment.act.gov.au/energy/energypolicy

All submissions received will be acknowledged.

Handwritten submissions may be transferred into PDF format or transcribed into typed format so thatthey may be displayed on the website.

Submissions will not be returned.

What i I believe my submission is confdential?

You may indicate in your submission that you consider matters raised within the text to be Confidentialor Commercial-in-Confidence.

You should clearly mark the top of each page of your submission to this effect. You should also providea statement or explanation as to why the information may be damaging or why your views should notbe subjected to public scrutiny.

All such claims will be considered. However, in the spirit of open and transparent consultation, it is farmore effective and useful that all submissions be made available publicly.


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Contacting us

The Sustainable Energy Policy 20102020 Secretariat is located within the ACT Department of theEnvironment, Climate Change, Energy and Water.

Submissions may be sent to:

Senior Manager Energy PolicyDECCEWGPO Box 158Canberra ACT 2601

Or emailed to:[email protected]

The Secretariat may be contacted on:02 6207 5641 or 02 6207 5870.

Submissions received may be viewed at:www.environment.act.gov.au/energy/energypolicy

Documents

ACT Government Draft Sustainable Energy Policy 2010–2020