Regional wind projects at risk from Government capitulation to coal
The Australian Wind Alliance said today that the long-awaited federal government plan energy was bad news for regional communities in New South Wales that were benefiting from a resurgence in the renewable energy industry.
“Malcolm Turnbull’s obsession with coal is threatening to strangle future wind and solar projects and the millions of dollars in investment they bring to regional Australia,” National Coordinator Andrew Bray said.
“The decision of this government to turn its back on the Chief Scientist’s Clean Energy Target puts at risk more than 3600 megawatts of clean energy projects around the country, plus the investment and jobs they bring to regional communities of NSW.
“The protection and priority this government is providing for the coal industry is no doubt making Tony Abbott proud, but it spells disaster to country Australians who want long-term, local jobs that don’t cost us the earth.”
Mr Bray said the government’s interventions would force Australians to rely on clunky, dirty and unreliable coal-fired power stations while the rest of the world adapted to the 21st century.
“Prime Minister Turnbull is failing our country on climate and energy. In the absence of federal leadership, we are looking to states and territories to step in and take control with a clear vision for how to grow the renewable energy industry and energise regional communities.
“Wind energy works. It is also the cheapest form of energy available. We need to cut the politics, and get on with it.”
Media inquiries: Dinah Arndt on 0425 791 394 or dinah@climatemediacentre.org.au or Andrew Bray on 0434 769 463.
The Australian Wind Alliance is a community-based advocacy group of farmers, wind workers, small businesses and residents. We share a common vision of harnessing Australia’s world-class wind resources to power our homes, cities and industries with clean renewable energy. Go to www.windalliance.org.au for details.