The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has sought feedback on its Draft FY27 Strategic Corporate Plan and Budget.
Since 2018, the AEMO has engaged CSIRO, supported by Climateworks Centre, to conduct multi-sector modelling to quantify the dynamic influences that would shape energy demand under different emissions reduction scenarios.
That modelling continues to inform AEMO’s planning and forecasting tools, including the 2026 Integrated System Plan.
In this submission, Climateworks has considered and provided comment on AEMO’s draft Strategic Corporate Plan focus with an emphasis on actions that would work to accelerate the energy transition in the areas of policy integration, demand strategy and planning integration.
Our comments are primarily reflective of the FY27 strategic priority of ‘navigating the energy future’.
We advocate for three priority areas: integrating government policy into system design, elevating demand-side strategy, and streamlining land-use planning.
We recommend AEMO shift its planning focus from ‘likely’ outcomes to those consistent with 1.5°C-aligned commitments.
By treating consumer energy resources and load shifting as essential infrastructure, AEMO can deliver a more affordable, reliable, and net-zero-ready grid.
This strategic shift ensures that future investments directly support Australia’s economic and environmental goals.