Australians value batteries and EVs, but renewables industry must earn trust of regions, summit told
Guardian AU
β’Wed, 29 Jul 2026 15:00:36 GMT
π° What Happened
A survey presented at the Clean Energy Council summit found Australian support for onshore wind and solar farms has declined, while support for home batteries and EVs remains strong. Social trends expert Rebecca Huntley said organised campaigns against renewables have been 'extremely effective' in undermining community support.
π The Backstory
Australia is undergoing a rapid transition to renewable energy, with ambitious state and federal targets driving large-scale wind, solar, and transmission projects. However, regional communities have increasingly pushed back against projects, citing visual impacts, land use conflicts, and perceived lack of local benefit. The Clean Energy Council has been advocating for better community engagement.
π― Why It Matters
Public acceptance is critical to Australia's clean energy transition. If trust erodes further in regional areas, renewable energy projects could face delays or cancellations that jeopardise emissions reduction targets. A national benefit-sharing scheme could help align local interests with national climate goals.
A survey presented at the Clean Energy Council summit found Australian support for onshore wind and solar farms has declined, while support for home batteries and EVs remains strong. Social trends expert Rebecca Huntley said organised campaigns against renewables have been 'extremely effective' in undermining community support.
Australia is undergoing a rapid transition to renewable energy, with ambitious state and federal targets driving large-scale wind, solar, and transmission projects. However, regional communities have increasingly pushed back against projects, citing visual impacts, land use conflicts, and perceived lack of local benefit. The Clean Energy Council has been advocating for better community engagement.
Public acceptance is critical to Australia's clean energy transition. If trust erodes further in regional areas, renewable energy projects could face delays or cancellations that jeopardise emissions reduction targets. A national benefit-sharing scheme could help align local interests with national climate goals.