Powertech managing director, Paul Carmignani, identifies the challenges critical to Australia’s net zero ambitions especially the need to strengthen the nation’s engineering capability.
As Australia’s ambitious 2050 net zero and 2030 greenhouse gas reduction deadlines approach, sustainable engineering in the renewable energy sector will determine whether these goals are met.
Australia has made substantial strides in renewable energy over the past decade, with capacity increasing from 77 petajoules to 291 petajoules, annually. But it still falls short.
The Net Zero Australia project makes it clear Australia will need to triple its power capacity by 2030 to be on track for net zero by 2050. Engineers are essential for this to be achieved.
Solar, wind, and battery storage capacity form the foundation of this transition, yet challenges remain in scaling both grid-connected and off-grid solutions quickly enough.
Engineers are at the forefront of designing these crucial renewable solutions necessary for Australia to meet its targets.
While traditional on-grid systems are vital, off-grid and behind-the-meter solutions must be given a greater deal of weight as they offer flexibility and reliability, especially for businesses in remote areas or industries needing uninterrupted energy.
Off-grid projects, that combine renewable generation with battery storage, allow businesses to reduce grid dependency and manage their energy use more effectively, lowering long-term costs and reinforcing energy security.
With Australia’s varied climate, solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries must be equipped to endure extreme conditions such as intense heat, dust, and high wind.
By prioritising durable materials and sustainable design approaches, Australia can reduce maintenance costs and enhance the longevity of renewable assets, creating reliable energy solutions across both on-grid and off-grid settings.
Resilient solutions
Business and industry commitments are driving demand for resilient renewable solutions that go beyond mere capacity increases.
Expanding battery storage and innovative storage solutions such as pumped hydro and hydrogen storage is essential to balance supply and demand.
Currently, Australia operates only 3 GW of large-scale storage, far below the estimated 49 GW needed by 2050 to support a fully renewable grid. Increased investment in these storage technologies would allow businesses greater energy autonomy, stability, and resilience, helping them reduce their reliance on the grid while improving operational efficiency.
Many projects are developed under tight budgets, prioritising cheaper materials or minimal upfront investment, which can compromise the durability and performance of renewable installations.
While upfront costs may be higher, a reduction in maintenance costs and extended lifespan will reduce the expense over time and help ensure that renewable systems can withstand Australia’s diverse climate zones and offer more reliable energy solutions.
Skill Shortage
Perhaps the most significant barrier towards Australia achieving its lofty sustainability targets is a shortage of specialised engineering talent, particularly in critical areas of renewables and energy storage.
An Engineers Australia report found the labour shortage for this sector has reached its highest level in over a decade, with demand outpacing supply by nearly three times the rate of the general workforce.
Without an increase in the number of skilled engineers, reaching these targets cannot be achieved. Resources are too low and significant government and industry investment in recruitment, education and training is crucial to expand the talent pool needed to meet the scale of future demands. Our goals cannot be achieved without it.
Sustainable engineering solutions developed today will not only shape a resilient, reliable energy landscape for Australia but also support the nation in reaching its net zero and greenhouse gas reduction targets.
Australia stands before an immense opportunity to be a global leader in best practice and efficiency.
Through a collaborative approach among government, industry, and engineering leaders, Australia can accelerate this progress and quicken its pace. But the time to act is now, with immediate response necessary for cleaner, more resilient energy systems that fulfil both national commitments and global climate responsibilities.
About the Author
Paul Carmignani joined Powertech as CFO in 2008 and was appointed managing director in December 2014. He has more than 25 years’ experience in engineering and finance. He is a CPA and Member of AICD.