The renewable energy transition is a double-edged sword for Canberra's local businesses. While it's commendable that the ACT government is pushing for a sustainable future, the reality is that the current energy policies are leaving some businesses in a lurch. This is particularly evident in the case of Evoke Bakery, an award-winning local business that has expanded to multiple sites in Canberra. The bakery's owner, Tom Lambert, is supportive of the government's push towards fully electric kitchens, but he's also frustrated by the practical challenges of implementing these policies.
The issue at hand is the ban on new gas connections, which means that any new location would need to be entirely electric. However, the problem lies in the power supply. Bakeries, like many other businesses, require a significant amount of electricity to operate, and the current energy infrastructure is not equipped to handle the demand. This is a classic case of a policy that sounds good on paper but fails to consider the practicalities of the real world.
The wait time for new connections is currently over 12 months, according to Evoenergy, and this is just one of the many hurdles that businesses face. Other restaurateurs have had to store electric equipment for years while waiting for energy upgrades that would allow them to use it. This disconnect between policy and practice is a significant concern, as it highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach to the energy transition.
The ACT government's response is to work closely with industry, consumers, and network operators to support the transition to an increasingly electrified economy. However, this response seems to be more of a reaction to the problem rather than a proactive solution. The government acknowledges the concerns and is considering regulatory reform, but the question remains: how effective will these reforms be in addressing the current challenges?
The Greens climate change spokesperson, Andrew Braddock, has a strong opinion on the matter. He argues that the electrical grid strengthening to support the electrification of gas and transport was considered in creating net zero policies, but the ACT Labor Government and Evoenergy have failed to prepare the grid for this predictable increase in load. This, he says, seriously compromises the net zero goals, and it's clear that Canberrans want to see progress.
The situation in Dickson is a prime example of the challenges that businesses face. The precinct has empty shopfronts, and the City Renewal Authority's Dickson Shops upgrade project is underway. However, the lack of a reliable power supply has prevented Evoke Bakery from opening a new location in Dickson, despite their eagerness to do so. This is a missed opportunity for the business and a setback for the community.
In conclusion, the renewable energy transition is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach. While the ACT government's efforts are commendable, there is a clear need for a more comprehensive strategy that considers the practical challenges of businesses. The current situation highlights the importance of balancing policy with reality, and it's a reminder that the transition to a sustainable future is a collective effort that requires the cooperation of all stakeholders.
