January 2010
John Grimes, CEO
Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES)
Website: www.auses.org.au
Email: ceo@auses.org.au
Australian Solar Energy Society welcomes the federal government’s proposed changes to the Renewable Energy Target, announced today. The changes reserve 41,000GWh (from the original 45,000GWh target) for large scale renewable energy like solar thermal, large scale photovoltaics, wind and wave power. In addition the government has announced an uncapped scheme that will apply to solar panels and solar hot water installations, with a fixed REC price of $40.
“This change recognises the importance of personal action on climate change, while freeing up the renewable energy target for large-scale investments” says John Grimes Chief Executive, Australian Solar Energy Society. “Perhaps the most damaging element of recent solar policy for the solar industry has been constant change. This announcement gives the industry the certainty it needs moving forward”. “Whilst the proposed changes are welcomed, they will not by themselves ensure a strong Australian solar industry. The Australian Government should support large-scale solar through loan guarantees or a national feed-in tariff and the existing Solar Flagships Program”. “A strong Australian solar industry will delver clean energy jobs across Australia, but this cannot happen without concerted government action.” “We look forward to seeing the detail in the legislation when it is available” said Grimes.