The draft paper identifies four priority areas for further action:

  • Strengthening the resilience of Australia’s energy-policy framework
  • Re-invigorating the energy market reform agenda
  • Developing Australia’s critical energy resources
  • Accelerating clean energy outcomes.

Launching the document in Melbourne, Minister for Resources and Energy, Martin Ferguson said: “Over the next two decades, Australia will require massive investment in the gas and electricity sectors – around $240 billion in generation, transmission and distribution.”

“The White Paper also focuses on the next round of energy market reform, including further privatisation of energy assets and the removal of retail price regulation to increase efficiencies and remove distortions in markets that deter private sector investment and are harmful to consumers’ interests,” said Minster Ferguson.

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Professor Ray Wills, Sustainable Energy Association (SEA) Chief Executive Officer, said: "The SEA is an industry chamber supporting market-based solutions to grow sustainable energy, and we welcome the continued planning for a sustainable energy future for Australia, and the White Paper will be an important element to lead market reforms across Australia."

John Grimes, Chief Executive Officer of the Australia Solar Energy Society said: "The White Paper has seriously underplayed the importance of solar to Australia’s future."

Written submissions on the draft paper are being received until 16 March 2012 and the final paper is due to be released in mid-2012.