AGL Energy (AGL) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to DCCEEW’s National Energy Performance Strategy Consultation.

Energy performance as a driver for decarbonisation

Emissions from the electricity sector have reduced significantly over the past decade, as aging emissions-intensive generation has exited the market, replaced by new large- and small-scale renewable generation that has been supported by subsidies from government policies and programs.

At the same time, several energy efficiency policies and programs have resulted in reduced electricity use through replacement of appliances and equipment. However, as more renewable generation enters the market, and as opportunities for appliance and equipment improvements become scarcer and more capital-intensive, it is important to consider how decarbonisation and energy efficiency objectives can be complemented by improvements in energy productivity.

Energy performance will have a critical role in the decarbonisation of Australia’s energy system to support meeting our national emissions reductions targets – by reducing, shaping and shifting energy demand to maximise the utilisation of renewable energy resources, and minimise energy costs for industrial, commercial, and residential customers.

We draw on lessons from energy performance-related trials and programs we have participated in such as our ARENA-funded Virtual Power Plant project in South Australia and NSW Demand Response program as well as our $6 million Energy Literacy Fund in drafting this submission alongside our experience servicing a broad range of customers across Australia, from residential (including renters and homeowners, customers with consumer energy resources (CER) and vulnerable customers) to large C&I customers with specific energy supply requirements.

A copy of AGL’s submission to the NEPS consultation is available here.