2019-11-19
The Greens have responded to the recent statements from the CEO of Alinta Energy, Jeff Dimery, who predicted an early closure of the Loy Yang B coal-fired power station and backed renewable energy and storage over carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology.
Quotes attributable to Victorian Greens spokesperson for climate change and energy, Ellen Sandell MLA:
“It’s not often we’re on the side of coal companies but the CEO of Alinta is right, we should be investing in renewable energy and storage, rather than more dirty, polluting coal-fired pipe dreams.
"So-called ‘carbon-capture’ is expensive and unproven and instead of trying to prop-up coal we should be planning to replace it with renewables.
“Victoria is burning more coal per year than the proposed Adani coal mine. It’s time for the Labor government to plan to phase out dirty, polluting coal in a way that supports workers and communities.
“The Latrobe Valley could be a superpower in renewable energy. It’s time for the Labor government to listen to the industry leaders, listen to the Greens and plan for a phase out of coal and a just transition for workers and their community.”
Quotes attributable to Leader of the Australian Greens, Senator Richard di Natale:
“Loy Yang B isn’t an isolated example of an industry in crisis. Renewables are already outcompeting coal, and by 2030, new solar and wind will be cheaper than new coal in every single country.
“This shift to a renewable economy will be felt across the globe – but if left to corporations concerned only with their bottom line, will lead to mass plant closures that leave workers down in the pits with no plans for their future.
“During recent hearings for the Greens-led Regional Jobs Inquiry, I heard from countless communities that are facing the imminent closure of local coal fired industry. They’re crying out for a genuine plan to create jobs in their region and support workers through a just transition, but all they’re getting from our Prime Minister are back pats and three word slogans.
“Only the Greens have a plan that acknowledges that coal has no long-term future, and that looks after workers through a transition to the 100% renewable economy of the future.”