MEDIA RELEASE
21 January 2010
Renewable energy industry calls for political cooperation
NATIONAL: Australia’s renewable energy industry is calling for cooperation between the major
political parties to accelerate the development of all clean energy technologies in Australia.
Shadow Resources and Energy Minister Nick Minchin today raised concerns about the low
value of renewable energy certificates (RECs) stalling investment and jobs in large scale clean
energy generation in Australia.
Clean Energy Council chief executive Matthew Warren welcomed the Coalition’s continued
commitment to building a world class clean energy industry in Australia which began in 2001
when it introduced the Mandatory Renewable Energy Target and its support for an expanded
target last year.
“The low price of renewable energy certificates has stalled multi-million dollar investment in clean
energy projects like wind farms, landfill gas and bioenergy, but household technologies are
affected by this issue as well,” he said.
“It’s important that any measures taken to improve the design of clean energy policy in Australia
develop all technologies, and not simply benefit some parts of the industry at the expense of
others.
“Small household-scale clean energy technologies such as solar panels and solar hot water are also
at the front end of action on climate change in Australia. Their continued growth and affordability is a
crucial part of a successful climate change strategy.
“Over the past decade there have been a range of well intentioned policy measures by all levels of
government to develop and deploy specific technologies. Some of these have exceeded
expectations, and unintentionally distorted the operation of market systems like the renewable
energy target.
“But we shouldn’t punish success, innovation and dynamic growth. Australia is blessed with a
remarkable scale and quality of different renewable energy options. We will need all of these
technologies and healthy industries if we are to deliver the kinds of emissions reductions needed.
Mr Warren called on all major parties to continue to work together this year to deliver the reforms
needed.
“What the clean energy industry needs the most is stability for investors. We need clear and
effective policy settings so business and households can get on with the job of delivering effective
greenhouse gas reduction at the lowest possible cost,” he said.
For media enquiries please call Mark Bretherton 0413 556 981 or 03 9929 4111
The Clean Energy Council, the peak body for the clean energy sector. It is working with all Australian
governments to ensure a secure and diversified energy sector, a reduction in energy waste through solar
water heating and insulation and more clean energy sources from solar, wind, geothermal, hydro, wave,
bioenergy and gas.
Suite 201, 18 Kavanagh Street, Southbank 3006, Australia
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info@cleanenergycouncil.org.au
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+61 3 9929 4100
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