By Paul Carmignani, Managing Director of Powertech
As Australia’s ambitious 2050 net zero and 2030 greenhouse gas reduction deadlines approach, sustainable engineering in the renewable energy sector will determine whether these goals are met. The backbone of infrastructure—engineering is critical to achieving our climate targets and ensuring long-term sustainability, yet questions still linger around the speed we are moving at and the diverse energy needs required to meet these targets.
Australia has made substantial strides in renewable energy over the past decade, with capacity increasing from 77PJ to 291PJ annually. Yet still, this pace falls short when compared to the scale of energy transition needed to meet national targets. Per the Net Zero Australia project, Australia will need to triple its power capacity by 2030 to be on track for net zero by 2050. Engineers are essential for this to be achieved.
Solar, wind, and battery storage capacity form the foundation of this transition, yet challenges remain in scaling both grid-connected and off-grid solutions quickly enough. Given the projected energy needs, it’s crucial that Australia’s engineering efforts include a diverse mix of infrastructure to include off-grid and “behind-the-meter” solutions, allowing businesses and communities to become energy self-sufficient and resilient.
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Engineering’s role in renewable energy and storage
Engineers are at the forefront of designing these crucial renewable solutions necessary for Australia to meet its targets. While traditional on-grid systems are vital, off-grid and behind-the-meter solutions must be given a greater deal of weight as they offer flexibility and reliability, especially for businesses in remote areas or industries needing uninterrupted energy. Off-grid projects, that combine renewable generation with battery storage, allow businesses to reduce grid dependency and manage their energy use more effectively, lowering long-term costs and reinforcing energy security.
To address the growing need for renewable infrastructure, it’s essential to invest in high-quality, resilient materials and advanced designs. With Australia’s varied climate, solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries must be equipped to endure extreme conditions such as intense heat, dust, and high wind. By prioritising durable materials and sustainable design approaches, Australia can reduce maintenance costs and enhance the longevity of renewable assets, creating reliable energy solutions across both on-grid and off-grid settings.
Meeting the demand for resilient, sustainable infrastructure
Business and industry commitments are driving demand for resilient renewable solutions that go beyond mere capacity increases. Industry players are increasingly focused on infrastructure that can deliver efficient, reliable energy, while also supporting corporate sustainability goals. For many, this involves integrating renewable energy with large-scale battery storage—ensuring energy availability regardless of weather conditions or grid stability, an engineering challenge particularly relevant for Australia’s unique and diverse climate.
Expanding battery storage and innovative storage solutions such as pumped hydro and hydrogen storage is essential to balance supply and demand. Currently, Australia operates only 3GW of large-scale storage, far below the estimated 49GW needed by 2050 to support a fully renewable grid. Increased investment in these storage technologies would allow businesses greater energy autonomy, stability, and resilience, helping them reduce their reliance on the grid while improving operational efficiency.
Challenges in long-term infrastructure investment
Many projects are developed under tight budgets, prioritising cheaper materials or minimal upfront investment, which can compromise the durability and performance of renewable installations. For businesses seeking to integrate off-grid solutions, prioritising investment in high-durability materials and sustainable infrastructure can bring significant long-term value by minimising maintenance costs and downtime. While upfront costs may be higher, a reduction in maintenance costs and extended lifespan will reduce the expense over time and help ensure that renewable systems can withstand Australia’s diverse climate zones and offer more reliable energy solutions.
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Engineering’s growing skill shortage
Perhaps the most significant barrier towards Australia achieving its lofty sustainability targets, however, is a distinct shortage of specialised engineering talent, particularly in critical areas of renewables and energy storage. A recent report by Engineers Australia highlighted the sector’s labour shortage reaching its highest level in over a decade, with demand outpacing supply by nearly three times the rate of the general workforce.
Without an increase in the number of skilled engineers, reaching these targets cannot be achieved. Resources are too low and significant government and industry investment in recruitment, education and training is crucial to expand the talent pool needed to meet the scale of future demands. Our goals cannot be achieved without it.
Sustainable engineering solutions developed today will not only shape a resilient, reliable energy landscape for Australia but also support the nation in reaching its net zero and greenhouse gas reduction targets. Australia stands before an immense opportunity to be a global leader in best practice and efficiency.
Through a collaborative approach among government, industry, and engineering leaders, Australia can accelerate this progress and quicken its pace. But the time to act is now, with immediate response necessary for cleaner, more resilient energy systems that fulfil both national commitments and global climate responsibilities.
