Sydney's Solar Surge: A Bold Vision to Power the City with Rooftop Energy

Sydney could meet 75% of its own energy needs just through rooftop solar and batteries, according to a new report by the Committee for Sydney. This ambitious target places the city firmly on the path to becoming a metropolitan Renewable Energy Zone (REZ), unlocking cleaner, cheaper, and more accessible energy options for millions.

Created in collaboration with Endeavour Energy, Ausgrid, Arup, and Arcadis, the Sydney as a Renewable Energy Zone report maps out practical models for how the city can produce, store, and distribute renewable energy. It also explores how the regional REZ success story could inspire a similar transformation within Sydney’s urban fabric.

The report delivers six major recommendations and 22 supporting actions. Highlights include mandating solar on new buildings, expanding community battery access, and offering rental incentives for landlords to install solar. These steps are seen as essential for creating a sustainable, resilient, and equitable energy system for Sydney.

Installing solar panels on every suitable rooftop in metropolitan Sydney could generate 21GW of renewable energy – enough to power three-quarters of the city’s total energy demand. Interestingly, Sydney alone accounts for nearly half of New South Wales’ energy use, and yet much of its rooftop solar potential remains untapped.

The report notes that apartment dwellers, renters, and those without roof access could benefit from shared rooftop models, especially by using industrial rooftops to generate surplus electricity. Industrial warehouses, for example, can produce five times more energy than they consume.

To maximise the value of rooftop solar, Sydney needs massive battery storage upgrades. These include household batteries, neighbourhood-scale systems, and virtual power plants (VPPs) that collectively store excess solar energy and release it during peak demand periods, making clean energy more reliable and equitable.

With these changes, Sydney could hit NSW’s ambitious emissions targets – 50% cuts by 2030 and net zero by 2050. Achieving this requires strong coordination between governments, regulators, businesses, and communities. Technologies like smart meters and data platforms will also play a key role in balancing this new energy landscape.

Leaders from Ausgrid, Endeavour Energy, Arcadis, Arup, and others have praised the report’s roadmap. They highlighted the importance of tapping commercial rooftops, existing infrastructure, and building incentives for property owners to unlock the city’s solar potential and deliver affordable energy to every Sydneysider.

Kate West from Arup emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration, urging for a dedicated coordinating body to remove policy and infrastructure roadblocks. With Sydney already one of the world’s top adopters of rooftop solar, momentum is strong—now it’s about turning potential into action.

---

As Australia accelerates toward a greener future, EServices4U is proud to stand with innovators and communities driving this transition. From solar and wind energy consultation to energy bill audits and efficiency advisory services, EServices4U empowers both businesses and households to make smarter, sustainable energy choices. For those looking to participate in Sydney’s emerging renewable revolution, EServices4U offers the expertise and tools needed to thrive in this new energy landscape. Learn more at www.eservices4u.com.au