The federal Coalition’s entrenched resistance to renewable energy and its enduring focus on fossil fuels has been criticized as contributing to “the biggest political mess of our time,” according to John Grimes, head of the Smart Energy Council. Speaking at the National Press Club on Wednesday, Grimes highlighted Australia’s significant role in the global shift towards renewable energy, attributing this progress to the leadership of the Albanese Labor government and the efforts of federal energy minister Chris Bowen.
Grimes praised Bowen as “arguably the most effective advocate for his portfolio in cabinet,” yet emphasized the urgent need for continued action and reform to meet Australia’s clean energy targets and global climate commitments. He called on the federal Coalition to “accept the science, the economics and the engineering” driving the transition to renewables.
Challenges and Ideological Divides
Grimes expressed concern over the Coalition’s long-standing opposition to the renewables sector, which he described as a defining ideological stance. “The Coalition has been coming after our industry since 2013,” Grimes stated, reflecting on his 17-year tenure as chief executive of the Smart Energy Council. “Being anti-renewables is the defining ideological test of allegiance for the Coalition.”
The Smart Energy Council, a prominent advocate for renewable energy in Australia, has played a key role in initiatives such as the Cheaper Home Batteries incentive. Grimes recently attended the SNEC exhibition in Shanghai, where he was reminded of the crucial contributions of Australian researchers to solar technology advancements.
Historical Context and Global Influence
Grimes highlighted the significant impact of Australian research on the global solar industry, citing the work of Professor Martin Green and the University of New South Wales. “I again saw firsthand how Professor Martin Green and the team at the UNSW are venerated,” he noted, emphasizing the historical connections between Australian innovation and the growth of the solar sector in China.
However, Grimes also pointed to the influence of fossil fuel interests on Australian politics, describing it as a “through line” leading to the current political challenges. He criticized the Coalition’s recent election proposal for nuclear reactor sites, which lacked detailed costings, as part of a strategy to undermine renewables while supporting nuclear and fossil fuels.
Public Support and Industry Growth
Despite the political challenges, Grimes noted the strong public support for solar energy across Australia, highlighting the industry’s rapid growth and widespread adoption. “Self-funded retirees, young families; people across every demographic and geography. Forget ideology – Australians love solar,” he said.
Grimes questioned the Coalition’s opposition to the renewables sector, which employs 50,000 workers and is supported by 10 million Australians with solar installations. “The question of the day is this? Where is the Coalition going to land on energy policy now?” he asked.
Future Prospects and Industry Support
Looking ahead, Grimes urged the Coalition to align with the national interest and support a clean, affordable energy future. “The best outcome for Australia, and for our industry is clear: A Coalition that accepts the science, the economics, and the engineering; that backs the national interest,” he stated.
Grimes assured that the Smart Energy Council would support any political entity that prioritizes the industry’s and the planet’s best interests, citing past collaborations with various state governments. “We’ll stand with anyone who has the best interests of our industry, and the planet, at heart,” he affirmed.
As the debate over energy policy continues, the Coalition faces pressure to reconsider its stance on renewables, with significant implications for Australia’s energy future and its role in addressing global climate challenges.
