Australian governments have invested a lot of hope in hydrogen to help drive the net zero transition, but concrete policies are urgently needed or we will lose our hydrogen advantage to other nations.
Australia’s business sector has recognised the profits to be made in the hydrogen transition. Acting quickly, and powering the shift with renewable energy, is key.
If Australia pushes ahead with producing fossil fuels, we may lock in a new high-emissions energy system, or one that’s uncompetitive. Clearly, green hydrogen is the best way forward.
As he reaches the end of his five-year term, Australia’s Chief Scientist Alan Finkel reflects on his proudest achievements in the role - and why the biggest projects have been the most unexpected.
Ahead of National Science Week, Chief Scientist Alan Finkel reflects on the growing value of citizen science, emphasising the need for more collaboration as we deal with an evolving climate.
Hydrogen from renewable energy such as solar can be produced with zero emissions.
Lucas Coch/AAP
Australia’s top scientist Alan Finkel says too many poor quality research papers are being published in Australia, and the system may inadvertently encourage academics to behave badly.
A musician must master the instrument before they can master playing in an orchestra.
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Chief Scientist Alan Finkel writes we can do a better job of teaching students to master a discipline and maximise their post-school opportinities.
In short, less advantaged students require significant additional supports, well beyond acknowledging their diverse pathways for entry into a degree program.
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From 2020, ANU will require students to meet co-curricular requirements alongside ATAR. This significant policy shift is meant to improve equity of access, but won’t change much.
A new report claims that combing renewable energy sources like solar with battery storage could safely take Australia to 50% renewables by 2030.
AAP Image/Lucy Hughes Jones
A recent report claims that Australia’s energy can reliably come from 50% renewable sources by 2030. But arguing over renewable levels distracts from a paucity of policy.
Energy minister Josh Frydenberg speaking at the Energy Summit in Sydney.
AAP Image/Dean Lewins
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie told Q&A that heatwaves were ‘worsening’ in Australia and ‘hot days’ had doubled in the last 50 years. Let’s take a look at the evidence.
Current political intervention in the energy market is haphazard and disconnected.
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The energy security crisis has politicians leaping to unveil various schemes. But we don’t need piecemeal action – the Finkel review, due in June, aims to create a coherent new energy blueprint.
Earlier this year Australia’s energy market operator warned of a gas shortage, sparking fears of an energy crisis. But new research shows the projected shortfall is so small, it may already be closed.
Friday’s post-COAG press conference saw a blunter approach from the assembled first ministers.
AAP/Lukas Coch