CCA Review: Hydrogen among key technologies crucial to Australia's path to net zero
The Climate Change Authority's review highlights hydrogen as a crucial emerging technology in Australia's effort to reach net zero emissions by 2050.
Australia’s Climate Change Authority (CCA) has released a much anticipated review outlining pathways for decarbonisation across key sectors, with hydrogen identified as one of the most promising technologies for achieving the country’s net zero target by 2050.
The review covers agriculture, land use, energy, industry, transport, and waste sectors, with a focus on both existing and emerging technologies. It emphasises the role hydrogen can play in reducing emissions, especially in areas where renewable energy alone may not be sufficient.
“The authority has charted a course for how Australia can decarbonise by 2050,” said Matt Kean, Chair of the Climate Change Authority.
The report highlights that while established technologies like solar and wind are critical to reducing emissions in the electricity sector, hydrogen and other low-emission solutions are necessary for hard-to-abate sectors like heavy industry and transport.
To support the transition, the review calls for collaboration across governments, businesses, and communities. It also recommends simplifying approval processes and addressing workforce shortages that may slow down the uptake of hydrogen and other clean technologies.
Kean stated that the development of hydrogen could help unlock new opportunities for Australia’s economy while contributing to decarbonisation. He also stressed the importance of working with regional communities to ensure they understand the role hydrogen infrastructure will play in their areas.
“We need to seize this once-in-a-generation opportunity to ensure Australia’s rapid and orderly transition as the world transforms to avert the worst impacts of climate change,” Kean added.
