Pathway to net zero set with sectoral emissions reduction strategy

• Investment and policy priorities needed for pathways towards net zero identified in Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategy (SERS)
• Strategy outlines actions that will guide emissions reduction across WA's economy
• Builds on existing policies to reduce Statewide emissions and support low-carbon industries

Dozens of initiatives that will drive decarbonisation and underpin Western Australia's path to net zero emissions have been released by the WA Government.

The Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategy (SERS) lists credible pathways towards emissions reduction throughout WA's economy, including in the electricity, transport, building, waste, and agriculture sectors.

These actions include:

• Unlocking additional investment in renewable energy in the South West Interconnected System (SWIS), WA's main energy grid;
• Facilitating decarbonisation of mining in the Pilbara through common-use infrastructure and the creation of renewable generation hubs in consultation with affected communities, including Traditional Owners;
• Expediting approval of priority electricity transmission infrastructure through dedicated resourcing within the State Government's green approvals team;
• Developing a Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage action plan;
• Increasing the public sector electric vehicle (EV) target to at least 50 per cent of all new fleet purchases; and
• Funding installation of additional EV charging stations at new METRONET train stations.

Extensive consultation has informed the development of these initiatives which complement the State Government's recently introduced Climate Change Bill 2023, which will legislate WA's target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The Bill requires the setting of interim targets as well as development of strategies and plans to reduce emissions and create a pathway for decarbonising the economy.

Read more on SERS here.

Comments attributed to Climate Action Minister Reece Whitby:

"The State Government has an important role to play in incentivising and facilitating investment in Western Australia's net zero transition.

"The Sectoral Emissions Reduction Strategy shows how we're going to reduce State Government emissions in line with net zero by 2050.

"Work is already underway to drive WA towards a zero emissions future.

"By working with industry, the State Government can ensure WA's clean energy future while making the most of the economic opportunities on offer."