The latest World Energy Outlook 2008 report projects that energy efficiency could deliver 54 per cent of global emissions savings and renewables another 23 per cent to be the primary source of emissions savings if the world is to reduce carbon dioxide emissions below 450ppm by 2030.
On current trends, energy related emissions of Co2 and other greenhouse gases could push average global temperatures up by as much as 6°C in the long term based on IPCC projections,? he said
?The energy sector will have to play the central role in curbing emissions through major improvements in efficiency and rapid switching to renewables and other low carbon technologies
?Without meeting the energy challenge we cannot meet our climate challenge,? Mr Tanaka said
In response, Clean Energy Council CEO Matthew Warren said ?as the clean energy industry, it?s our responsibility to do everything we can to assist and encourage governments to ensure Australia assumes its rightful place as a clean energy superpower.
?We have the technology,? he sai
?These are difficult, complex issues but delays and mistakes are not costless and as Mr Tanaka has reminded us today our current energy trends are unsustainable ? socially, environmentally and economically,? Mr Warren said.
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The Clean Energy Council, the peak body for the clean energy sector, is working with all Australian governments to ensure a secure and diversified energy sector; reducing energy waste including the take up of solar water heating and insulation; and more clean energy sources in our stationary energy mix from solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, bioenergy and gas.
