21 January 2010

Renewable energy industry calls for political cooperation

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.