2016-06-06
Greens announce support for solar on homes and businesses
The Australian Greens have today released their plan to help homes, businesses and schools embrace solar technology: Renew Australia – repowering our homes and businesses.
“The Greens want to see Australia powered by 90 per cent renewable energy by 2030,” said Senator Richard Di Natale, Australian Greens Leader.
“Transforming Australia’s energy generation isn’t just about investing in large-scale projects, it means overcoming those barriers that are preventing solar panels from being installed on roofs across the country.
“Our announcement today will help give every home, business and school in Australia the opportunity to take control of their energy, save on their bills and help combat global warming.
Greens Energy spokesperson, Adam Bandt said the Greens' plan would also create many new jobs in the solar industry, which is being harmed by the end of state government programs.
“Australia is one of the sunniest countries in the world yet we are still lagging behind cloudy Germany when it comes to renewables.”
“We need to remove the barriers put in place by electricity companies so that the millions of Australians who want solar can join the 1.5 million homes that already have it.”
“We want all Australians to be able to join in the solar revolution that is sweeping the world.”
The Greens' plan includes:
• A $5 million information campaign to promote the Clean Energy Finance Corporation’s schemes to support Households and Businesses installing solar with no upfront costs.
• Ensure a fair price for solar is paid by energy companies
• Roll out the $192 million Sustainable Schools Program
• Establish a Solar Ombudsman within the Clean Energy Regulator to facilitate a ‘right to solar’ for renters
• Work to reform laws that will enable access to solar energy for residential and commercial tenants
• Reform the legislative objectives and rules of energy market to democratise and modernise our energy system.
The policy complements previously announced Greens' plans for large-scale and community-owned renewables, battery storage and a pathway to 90% renewables by 2030, including the phase out of coal-fired power generation.