Roadmap unveiled to achieve net-zero economy in Victoria

The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry has released `Achieving a Net-Zero Economy: Roadmap for Victorian Businesses’ in a push to lower energy costs, guarantee a steady supply of energy, and aid companies in the move to a net-zero economy.

The Chamber’s Roadmap advocates for the State Government to work in partnership with the business community and government to make Victoria’s emissions target of 95 per cent renewable energy use by 2035 a reality. 

The roadmap includes short, medium and long-term recommendations that will help address the issues facing businesses including opportunities for energy-intensive industries for grants, subsidies and incentives to lower energy costs and effectively transition to renewable energy options.

In order to ensure that businesses have the future workforce they will require, the state is also creating programs for reskilling workers in existing industries to migrate via micro-credentials or fast-tracked courses.

Commercial solar upgrades will be prioritised to increase commercial subsidy schemes to boost commercial subsidy programs and encourage commercial real estate owners to build renewable energy infrastructure.

According to a recent survey of Victorian Chamber members, 53 per cent of businesses believe Victoria is not doing enough to invest in renewable energy, dispatchable energy and energy infrastructure. 

Meanwhile, 75 per cent of businesses felt they were not getting enough support with the increased cost of energy in Victoria.

“The energy crisis is one of the biggest challenges businesses are facing in 2023. That’s why the Victorian Chamber is taking a proactive approach to raise awareness and provide practical solutions to reduce costs, ensure reliable energy supply and support businesses transition to a net-zero economy,” said Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry Chief Executive Paul Guerra.

The executive added that by adopting a roadmap, the Victorian Government could effectively attract private investment, lower energy prices, guarantee the supply of energy, and support businesses in the transition to a net-zero economy.