We conduct public interest financial analysis on the most profound economic transformation since the industrial revolution: the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.
About
Climate Energy Finance (CEF) is a think tank established in 2022 that works probono in the public interest to accelerate decarbonisation. We conduct research and analyses on global financial issues related to the global energy transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, as well as the implications for the Australian economy, with a key focus on the threats and opportunities for Australian investments and exports. Read more
Our Work
AGL | CEF NEWS UPDATES | CEF SERIES ON CRITICAL MINERALS | China | Coal/electricity/electrification | Critical minerals | Decarbonisation | Energy Crisis | Finance Sector & Emissions | Green Iron | Hydrogen | India & Adani | Monthly China Energy Updates | Nuclear | Submissions | Taxes & subsidies | US IRA/ NZIA et al |
PODCAST INTERVIEW | The Brand Called You with Tim on Australia’s Path to Renewable Energy and Decarbonization
The conversation also covers Australia’s role in the energy transition, acknowledging the country’s significant reliance on fossil fuel exports but emphasizing its renewable energy potential. Tim discusses Australia’s advantages in solar and wind resources, comparing its progress with countries like China and India, who are leading in renewable energy installation. Tim argues that Australia must embrace decarbonization opportunities, particularly by leveraging its mining sector to produce green iron and create value-added exports that could significantly reduce emissions in the steel industry. Read more
CEF PRESENTATION | Tim Buckley on Leadership and Pathways for Change at CISL – NSW Event
Tim Buckley presented at the CISL + NSW Government event titled “The Future is Now,” contributing to the NSW Government Positive Impact Leaders Program. This intensive event, held at The Mint in Sydney on 11 March 2025, focused on new pathways for change, highlighting both the vast opportunities and significant risks Australia faces in addressing climate change, energy, and environmental challenges. Tim’s presentation emphasized the urgent need for action, offering insights into the evolving landscape and the critical role of leadership in shaping a sustainable future for the country. Read more
CEF PRESENTATION | Tim speaks at CISL NED and BSP
The University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL) hosted its annual series of programmes in Australia. These exclusive programmes are designed and delivered to equip Directors and Corporate Leaders with the knowledge and skills to drive sustainable transformation. This was held 2 – 5 March 2025, Mansion Hotel, Werribee Park, Melbourne. Tim speaks about the critical dependencies between resource use and industry, focusing on the opportunities for change. Read more
OP ED | Australia Secures Critical Green Iron Industry Policy Package to Future-Proof the Whyalla Steelworks and Kickstart a Decarbonised Iron Industry
The Albanese Government has today announced a landmark package to salvage the beating heart of South Australia’s steel industry, and provide the necessary, strategic public intervention to future-proof and catalyse the region’s transition to a nation-leading green iron and steel hub. Read more
Media
AGL China Coal Critical minerals Decarbonisation Electricity/electrification Energy crisis Finance Sector & Emissions gas Green Iron/Steel Hydrogen India & Adani Nuclear offshore wind OP EDS Renewables Taxes and subsidies TIM BUCKLEY ON THE SPARK CLUB PODCAST US IRA/EU NZIA et al
RADIO INTERVIEW | Ellen Fanning of ABC Brisbane Drive; Power Price Hike Explained
ABC online
Tim explains that power prices are rising because Queensland hasn’t built enough new energy capacity to replace old coal-fired plants. In Queensland, prices are going up by 3-5%, while Victoria’s increase is lower at 1-3%. Read more
RADIO INTERVIEW | Jess McGuire with Tim on electricity prices cap price ABC NSW Statewide Drive
ABC online
Tim, an expert in energy finance, argues that while renewables are not costly, Australia hasn’t built enough renewable energy capacity. He opposes nuclear power as a distraction in Australia, saying it’s too expensive and would raise prices. Instead, he recommends people use rooftop solar and batteries to cut their energy bills by up to 80%. The transition to renewables could happen faster than some politicians say, and individuals can help by using solar power and reducing grid energy use. Read more
‘Enhance and pivot’: Australia’s relationship with China could provide energy storage boom
Energy Storage News
“The single biggest opportunity for Australia is to enhance and pivot our relationship with China,” Tim Buckley, director of think tank Climate Energy Finance (CEF), tells ESN Premium ahead of Solar Media’s Energy Storage Summit Australia 2025. Buckley believes Australia’s positive trade relations with China will increase the investability prospects in the country’s energy storage market, which could prove vital in Australia’s shift to a green economy. Read more
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