The Clean Energy Council welcomes the Victorian Government’s announcement that renewable energy will play a vital role in the state’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. A market sounding is being called for at least 600 MW of new projects that will test industry interest and capacity for new solar, wind and other renewable energy projects.
The announcement is a positive step following recent analysis from the Clean Energy Council showing that investment in large-scale renewable energy projects had stalled.
Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Kane Thornton said that plans for a Clean Recovery should be a significant boost to the morale of all Victorians.
“The timing of today’s news couldn’t be better – Victorians want to know what’s on the horizon following a terrible six months. Local job creation, a more secure energy supply and a means to address climate change are all ahead as Victoria works towards 50 per cent renewables over the next decade.
“It will be critical to ensure these projects can connect to the grid. We’re pleased to hear that the Victorian Government is supporting the streamlining of the grid connection process and also the development of the renewable energy zone model to ensure these projects can contribute positively to the grid while providing investor confidence,” said Thornton.
The Clean Energy Council estimates that 900 construction jobs along with 120 operation and maintenance jobs could be created through the new projects.
Significantly, it is hoped that electricity-reliant industries and businesses, which often rely most on fossil fuels, will buy renewable energy along with government through this process.
“This is an important step for Victoria’s Clean Recovery and for the rest of the country,” said Thornton. “Renewable energy is cheap and abundant, and keeping costs lower for industry will lead to savings right across the supply chain for the people they serve.”
ENDS
For more information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Jane Aubrey
Clean Energy Council Media Manager
[email protected]
+61 409 470 683
