2016-04-11
Greens leader Senator Richard Di Natale is visiting Adelaide today to announce the South Australian component of the Greens’ RenewAustralia plan.
“The RenewAustralia plan would see the creation of 800-1000 jobs in a state that desperately needs them, while setting a course for South Australia to be powered by 100% clean energy by 2030,” Senator Di Natale said.
“Transitioning to clean energy is the key to unlocking South Australia’s economic potential and combating global warming. While both Malcolm Turnbull and Bill Shorten talk about tackling climate change, they have locked us into the industries of the last century, supporting coal and vested interests.
“It is a testing time for South Australia. The Whyalla community is facing the possible closure of its major employer while Port Augusta prepares to close its coal-fired power station. Thousands of jobs have been lost in this state yet our vision for a clean energy future would see this state thrive.”
Senator for South Australia Robert Simms said the state could be excited about the proposal to build a 110mW solar thermal tower near Port Augusta.
“Building a solar thermal plant would create 1000 construction jobs in a region where they are badly needed. The Greens’ plan would cement SA as a nation-leader in clean energy production and also in advanced manufacturing and sustainable agriculture,” Senator Simms said.
“This plan will deliver major new clean energy projects where the sun shines and the wind blows by working with industry and the community through a combination of reverse auctions and direct investment.”
Senator for South Australia Sarah Hanson-Young said while job losses often made the headlines in SA, there is a bright future in clean energy for the state.
“We know SA needs a drastic change to get our economy ticking and creating more jobs. It’s obvious we need a plan for the future. The Greens have the courage to help transition the state to a clean energy future, providing secure 21st century jobs in Adelaide and in regional SA,” Senator Hanson-Young said.
“This is a plan that doesn’t tether us to volatile world markets, so if an industry like the Arrium steel works in Whyalla, Holden in Elizabeth, and the Port Augusta power station, faces closure, these areas can still thrive.
“This is a necessary next chapter in South Australia’s clean energy story.”