Since 1980, Renew has helped Australians live more sustainably with practical advice. But advice alone won’t get a sustainable home and clean energy to everyone. That takes governments willing to commit to policies that change things for the better, creating systems that support households.
We undertake independent research and advocate on behalf of households to push for policies that speed up the shift to renewable energy and cut emissions. We also campaign for homes that are healthier, more affordable and ready for a changing climate, and for strong consumer protections as our energy markets change fast.
Climate Resilient Homes
Making our homes more energy and water efficient will save money on energy bills, cut greenhouse emissions, create jobs and reduce the health risks of living in homes that are too hot, cold or damp.
But despite the benefits, Australia’s building efficiency standards and the performance of our homes lag behind other major economies.
Since late 2018 we’ve been leading a coalition of community and consumer groups calling for a comprehensive national strategy to improve the energy and water performance of all Australian homes – new and existing
Read more about Renew’s Climate Resilient Homes campaign
Consumer-focused energy markets
In the National Electricity Market, Renew is a formally recognised Consumer Advocacy organisation, and has been active and effective in energy market policy and regulatory issues over the past fifteen years. As part of our ongoing consumer advocacy work, Renew is a participant member of the National Consumer Roundtable on Energy.
Working in collaboration with other consumer advocates, Renew has played a key role in improving outcomes for Australian households.
Read more about Renew’s consumer-focused energy markets advocacy.
Advocacy
Report: Fit to Rent: A Roadmap for Mandatory Energy Efficiency Standards in NSW
Renew's new research on mandatory energy efficiency standards in NSW that demonstrates with the right finance models and potentially support from governments (as is on offer in NSW), achieving significant improvements in safety, efficiency and health is within reach.
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Advocacy
AEMC proposed rule change on fixed charges not in consumers’ interests
Renew’s submission to the AEMC electricity pricing review supports fairer energy bills for households but warns that shifting toward higher fixed network charges could undermine solar uptake, energy efficiency and equity. The submission urges reforms that protect consumer choice, encourage clean energy investment and keep electricity pricing simple and affordable.
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Advocacy
Solar Sharers should be checked for unintended consequences
Renew has made a submission to the Federal Government's proposed Solar Sharer Offer whereby consumers are offered free electricity generated by solar in the network. Our submission supports the intent of the proposal and outlines how, with careful design, the SSO could support affordability and grid reliability while maintaining incentives for households to invest in solar and batteries.
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