New government 'must be made aware of renewable achievements'

15th Jul 2013

The threat of a new government could spell bad news for existing renewable policies, which is why it is vital to make clear how effective sustainable measures have been.

This is the message being driven home by campaign group Beyond Zero Emissions (BZE), which called for clear and concise discussion about the benefits of renewable energy and energy efficiency.

In fact, the organisation described the two as the "real heroes" of climate change action in Australia, despite the carbon price stealing the headlines.

That's not to say the group doesn't support the carbon price; it was quick to point out that recent data has shown the initiative is bringing down emissions and costs aren't spiralling out of control.

However, BZE expressed concern that the leadership squabbles that have seen Julia Gillard replaced as prime minister by Kevin Rudd could have an impact on green policies.

Especially the Renewable Energy Target (RET), which the organisation said has been vital in meeting the country's clean energy goals.

"Despite serious damage to the RET during Rudd's first term … the growth in rooftop solar installations and the recommencement of wind farm construction in the last year shows the RET is still kicking goals," BZE stated.

"If left alone to function properly, the RET is on track to have 26 per cent of electricity generated from renewables by 2020."

But the campaigners aren't just happy with 26 per cent. They say it is merely a stepping stone for reaching the ultimate goal of 100 per cent.

A new government could jeopardise this, BZE claimed, so presenting the facts about energy efficiency is important to prevent any dubious policy changes.

The group is already looking to bring out a new Buildings Plan soon, which will outline ways in which energy efficiency measures can be ramped up in structures through the country.

"Fast reductions in emissions are possible by seizing the low-hanging fruit of energy efficiency, and by building renewable energy right away," the group claimed.

One of the most essential parts of this is making sure the RET isn't tampered with to make it less effective, something which fossil fuel lobbyists are trying their hardest to do.

BZE highlighted how important it is to ensure they don't succeed, claiming energy efficiency and renewable energy already have traditional power sources trapped in a "pincer movement".

"Let's make sure they don't wriggle out of this one!" the organisation stated.

Posted by Bob Dawson

All solar power news categories

Government Rebate & Regulations
Solar Power & Technology


More Government Rebate & Regulations

The election that could cast a deep shadow on solar power
This just in: You are nothing but a means to profit for big utilities and NSW government
The Tongans know a bad solar deal when they see one
Solar feed-in tariffs: Who's getting screwed?
Australian government at a solar power crossroads
WA government admits fault in solar rebate debacle
WA Government saves millions while solar customers are up in arms
SA's solar feed-in scheme costs to rise higher
CEC slams FIT deregulation in SA
Carbon tax announcement 'just a ripple'
Industry reactions to Rudd carbon price changes
New government 'must be made aware of renewable achievements'
Solar features prominently in ARENA funding plans
Calling all solar panel installers - 'save clean technology grants'
Manufacturers set to see bright side of economic slump?
Coalition government 'could spell bad news for solar'
'Not FIT for purpose' - ACT government on tariffs
QLD government under fire for negative solar stance
China's first trading emissions scheme begins
Details of the Queensland solar controversy
Solar panel reprieve for Queensland
Tasmania's solar future no longer too uncertain
Renewable energy funding on the brink
The Clean Energy Council calls for more renewables
Reactions to renewable energy decisions from the 2013-14 federal budget
Federal budget announcement offers a mixed bag
The impact of the carbon tax
Govt energy efficiency success
Renewable Energy Target achievements
New funding for solar panels
Australia and China further carbon cutting collaboration
Examining Australia's environmental efforts
Renewable Energy Target survives its review
Solar powered cinema a possibility
New licensing will make it easier for solar installers to work across states
Renewable recommendations for WA
Renewable energy target hangs in the balance
Deadline approaching for QLD PV installations under 44 cent solar tariff
Electricity emissions down since carbon tax introduced
Reactions to RET review final report mixed
CCA: RET on track to achieve goals
Experts slam Solar Credits decision
Government support 'needed for commercial solar development'
Shadow ministers slam ARENA withdrawal
Industry expert lauds solar PV impact
Australian Solar Council chief hits back at CCA review suggestion
Australian Solar Council debuts solar electorate map
CCA report 'victory for common sense'
Productivity Commission draft 'good for solar'
SA solar campaign reaches government level
 To get your quotes, please enter your postcode: