The renewables push is being driven by necessity
The push for renewable energy is being driven by global crises such as climate change, geopolitical conflict, and fuel shortages. Historical precedents like the 1970s oil crisis show that necessity can drive rapid shifts in energy policy and consumption. The transition to renewables must now be managed equitably to ensure broad societal benefits.
- ▪The 1970s oil crisis led to a significant shift toward energy-efficient vehicles, a model that could inform today’s energy transition.
- ▪Kevin Rudd and Malcolm Turnbull, despite past political differences, now share support for renewable energy adoption.
- ▪Current government policies, including tax incentives for inefficient vehicles, are seen as counterproductive to renewable energy goals.
- ▪A proposed levy on gas exports could help address inequality but has been avoided by the government.
- ▪Rooftop solar adoption in Australia is the highest in the world, reflecting strong public engagement with renewable technology.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","dateModified":"2026-04-28T08:30:00Z","datePublished":"2026-04-28T08:30:00Z","description":"The “oil crisis” of the 1970s triggered a paradigm shift toward more energy efficient vehicles. The same must occur in the current crisis.","headline":"The renewables push is being driven by necessity","keywords":"Letters,…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at The Sydney Morning Herald.