Australia is being strongly encouraged to abandon coal without exceptions and significantly increase rooftop solar installations by 2030 as part of an intensified effort to swiftly achieve net zero emissions.

A major new report asserts that Australia has a clear imperative to aim for nothing less than net zero emissions by 2035, with the majority of this target achievable by the end of the decade using proven technologies and sensible policies. The Climate Council’s report, titled “Seize the Decade,” outlines a roadmap for Australia to achieve a 75% reduction in emissions below 2005 levels by 2030 and reach net zero by 2035, aligning with the imperative to limit global warming to the safest possible levels. According to the report, Australia can rely on renewables and storage to meet 94% of its grid electricity needs, double its installed rooftop solar capacity, significantly reduce industrial climate pollution, and transition to decarbonized transportation for both people and goods—all by 2030. The plan emphasizes accelerating the ongoing phase-out of coal, oil, and gas across all sectors while prioritizing renewable energy, storage, and electrification. Critically, the plan avoids overreliance on land-based carbon offsets or unproven technologies like carbon capture and storage, and it excludes “unviable proposals” such as nuclear energy or widespread hydrogen use in homes. The report emphasizes actionable solutions aimed at slashing climate pollution by 75% by 2030, in line with scientific recommendations. It rejects empty promises or excuses, advocating for concrete actions to leverage existing momentum and address climate challenges during this pivotal decade. Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie underscores the urgency of the situation, noting the severe impacts Australian communities face from extreme weather events like floods, heatwaves, and fires.