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We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the ACT, the Ngunnawal people and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region.

Canberra is building a smarter, healthier, net zero future.

We’re leading the nation on climate action

Canberra is delivering one of the most ambitious climate action agendas in the world. Our achievements show what’s possible in designing a thriving, carbon-neutral city.

The ACT is now powered by 100% renewable electricity, generated by wind and photovoltaic power. And as Asia Pacific’s most progressive territory in moving towards a low-carbon economy, we’ve attracted more than $2 billion in investment into sustainable energy.

When you do business in Canberra, you’re contributing to a genuinely sustainable future.

An open door to the Australian market

Our nation-leading policies make the ACT an attractive launch point for businesses into the developing Australian energy and cleantech market.

French renewable energy company Neoen, French multinational Engie, and Google’s drone delivery service Project Wing all established themselves in the ACT before expanding into the Australian market. Our ‘city-state’ government also means concepts go from pilot to proven faster here than anywhere else in Australia.

From next-generation quantum computing to 100% renewable electricity, Canberra is an incubator for bold ideas and new technologies.

Electrifying Canberra

The ACT has an ambitious target to achieve zero net emissions by 2045. This opens up exciting opportunities in the cleantech and renewable energy industries. To drive this forward, we’re preparing to electrify Canberra and transition away from fossil fuels, such as gas, petrol and diesel.

This will mean phasing out approximately 139,000 fossil fuel gas connections and creating new all-electric suburbs. We’re the first jurisdiction to make this commitment, sparking demand for new electric appliances for home and businesses, and innovative solutions for multi-unit dwellings.

Nation-leading Zero Emissions Vehicle (ZEV) transport sector

From electrifying our bus fleet to developing the next stage of light rail, we’re working on innovative solutions for a zero emissions public transport system by 2040.

The number of battery electric buses operating in the ACT public transport fleet is growing, with plans in place to add more over the next three years. We’re also exploring hydrogen fuel cell or battery electric technology to manage the Territory’s household waste collection.

With the help of our generous incentives, we’re on track to deliver our target of 80-90% of new car sales in the ACT to be ZEVs by 2030. This will create major market opportunities for electric vehicle (EV) sales, and EV charging and supercharger stations across the Territory.

ZEVs in the ACT are already on the rise. In fact, 1 in 5 new cars registered in the ACT are now ZEVs, thanks to free vehicle registration and zero interest loans up to $15,000 for households to buy a ZEV.

Adopting green hydrogen

Canberra is also exploring opportunities in hydrogen policy, research, and industry trials, and is the first state government to invest in a green hydrogen vehicle fleet. This includes Australia’s first public access, hydrogen vehicle refuelling station, currently producing 21 kg of hydrogen a day.

The ACT also has a first-of-its-kind hydrogen test facility to develop the infrastructure, safety and training needed for producing, storing and using green hydrogen.

We’re helping Australia become a global player in the production of green hydrogen, creating opportunities for hydrogen mobility and increased ZEV adoption.

Talk to us

Contact us to find out about the exciting opportunities in the climate action sector in the ACT. We’ll provide more information, introductions and leads.

Published date: 06 Sep 2024
Related Pages

World leaders in sustainability

We’re leading the nation on climate action, delivering on our commitment to net-zero, and opening up opportunities for innovative new enterprises.

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Interested in doing business in Canberra?

Contact the business team for information and advice.