The ACT government has unveiled plans to phase out the use of fossil gas in Australia’s capital territory by 2045, with the release of a paper modelling the transition to full electrification of homes and businesses over the coming two decades.
In an announcement on Thursday, ACT chief minister Andrew Barr said the move to quit gas was a part of the Territory’s decarbonisation journey, led by its shift to 100% renewables and hurried along, perhaps, by soaring gas prices.
“Gas prices have risen by around 25 per cent since 2016 and are expected to continue to rise,” Barr said.
“In short, the days of cheap gas in Australia appear over and renewable electricity is now the cheapest and cleanest way to power our homes and businesses.”
In line with the ACT’s recent commitment to quit fossil fuel cars, Barr said the Territory’s electrification would be “a long-term and…
