Mapping and Quantification of CRCs’ Work on Decarbonisation

CRCs to play a pivotal role in Australia’s transition to net zero by facilitating industry-led research

Based on current projections, Australia won’t meet its target to reach net zero by 2050.

According to the International Energy Agency’s Australia 2023 review, Australia will reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 37% below 2005 levels by 2030 – short of its 43% target.

The review highlights that more work needs to be done if Australia is to reach its 2050 targets.

But a new report by advisory firm ACIL Allen highlights a possible solution – enhancing the role and contribution of Cooperative Research Centres.

The Mapping and Quantification of CRCs’ Work on Decarbonisation report demonstrates the potential of CRCs to support Australia’s energy transition.

The report shows how Cooperative Research is a proven model with demonstrated success in delivering new products and services, developing reports and other publications, contributing to education and capacity building, enhancing Australia’s export opportunities, informing decision-making, and engaging with end users.

Key Findings

• 13 CRCs have allocated $1.12 billion in private and public R&D investment to decarbonisation-related activities.
• Data from 7 CRCs have estimated potential GHG emissions reductions of 62.8 Mt by 2032, attributable to their R&D efforts.
• The net benefits of avoided emissions by 13 CRCs are estimated to contribute to CO2 abatement valuing $3.3 billion or $1.3 billion in PV terms.
• Estimates from 13 CRCs are projected to boost Australia’s GDP by $4.8 billion or $1.9 billion in PV terms over the lifetime of the benefits and $5.80 in additional GDP generated for every dollar invested in the CRCs’ decarbonisation work.
• The collective partner network includes 1,691 research, government, industry and non-government entities across 4 continents and 18+ countries.
• 10 CRCs have assisted with the management of emissions from 72 companies reporting more than 102Mt of CO2E (19.2% of Australia’s total emissions) to the Safeguard Mechanism and the National Greenhouse and Energy Reporting Scheme (NGERs).

CRCs will remain an important facilitator of innovation and catalyst for change as the government formulates its Net Zero Plan and new target for 2035.

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