Media release
The majority of Australians are clearly committed to the retention of the current Renewable Energy Target (RET), according to the federal leader of the Palmer United Party and Member for Fairfax, Clive Palmer.
Mr Palmer said polling conducted by the Solar Citizens Organisation in the southern areas of the Sunshine Coast found 96 per cent of the population questioned were either in support of increasing the RET or keeping it as it is.
He said there is an ever increasing need to see all Australians move towards more cleaner renewable energy sources, while PricewaterhouseCoopers has revealed Australia as the world’s “unexpected champion” in its reduction of emissions for a second year running.
“This is a clear indication that the Abbott government needs to place greater emphasis on the RET and what benefits it will deliver to the Australian people, increased job security, and continued growth with year on year investment from external investors,” Mr Palmer said.
“Senior government figures, including Prime Minister Tony Abbott, reportedly want the target scrapped, saying it has forced up power prices (Sydney Morning Herald 8.8.14). This clear need for change will cause increased levels of uncertainty and will draw investors to retract funding, costing the Australian economy up to $28 billion and 5000 jobs.
“Solar alone is now being used by almost 17 per cent of the total Australian population. This along with set future incentives to establish new solar and wind farms, hydroelectric powers stations will identify Australia as the global leader in renewable energy.”
Ends