Australia’s renewable energy sector: exploring pathways to achieve net-zero emissions and energy supply chain sustainability

The climate crisis and global commitments to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 have intensified the focus on renewable energy. However, Australia’s renewable energy sector faces significant challenges, particularly reliance on imported materials and technologies. This study evaluates trends and policy developments, identifies challenges to Australia’s renewable energy transition and proposes strategic recommendations to enhance economic viability and environmental sustainability. A review of 45 selected studies based on the energy transition theory, sustainable supply chain management and global-local interdependencies, reveals key barriers such as reliance on fossil fuels, grid integration issues and regional disparities. These findings highlight the need for technological innovation, policy reforms and strategic investments to strengthen grid resilience and build sustainable supply chains. Australia has strong potential to lead the global renewable energy transition by expanding domestic manufacturing capacity, upgrading infrastructure and fostering coordinated action between government and industry. A comprehensive conceptual framework is presented to guide sustainable sector development. This study also identifies priorities for future research, including advanced grid technologies, local production systems, recycling practices and region-specific energy strategies to support a resilient and competitive renewable energy ecosystem.