SYDNEY, Feb 9, 2019 – NSW Labor’s plan to provide 500,000 households with $2,200 to install solar panels, will help ease the pressure on New South Wales’ ageing and unreliable coal-fired generators, while also lowering pollution and power prices. Opposition Leader Michael Daley announced the policy in Western Sydney this morning, saying it would save families up to $1000 a year.
Greenpeace Australia Pacific Campaigner, Holly Dawson, said the policy reflected the widespread community appetite for clean energy commitments.
“This policy will provide clean energy for everyday people who want to take back control of their electricity bills, while reducing the pollution that causes climate change – it’s a fantastic initiative.”
“It’s great to see Labor finally come to the table on this important issue. Now it is time to see similar leadership from the Liberal Party. Gladys Berejiklian has had eight years and she still hasn’t come up with a policy,” Ms Dawson said.
The scheme will be capped at 500,000 households over ten years. Eligible homes must be owner-occupied and the scheme is restricted to families on a combined income of less than $180,000 per year.
Ms Dawson said there was now a need to allow renters to access rooftop solar and to support industrial scale renewable projects.
“People who rent deserve to be able to access clean and cheap energy too. That’s why we are calling on the next New South Wales government to introduce a solar rebate to help families that are renting, to access solar panels – or help those who already have solar to install battery storage.
“It’s critical that the next New South Wales government outline how it will ensure the state’s economy is powered by affordable and reliable technology far into the future, by outlining plans for significant increases in larger wind and solar farms.”
Climate advocacy groups including Greenpeace, the Nature Conservation Council of NSW, and Solar Citizens, are calling on all parties contesting the NSW election to ensure:
- The NSW Government tenders for at least 4000 MW of large-scale clean power, along with large-scale battery storage;
- All government operations are powered with 100 percent renewable energy, including schools and public hospitals during the next government (2019-2023);
- Every household (including low-income and rental properties) can access solar power within 10 years by introducing a Solar For All Rebate and helping families with solar install batteries;
- Doubling New South Wales’ energy productivity by 2030 by investing in a range of energy efficiency programs; and
- Legislate for net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, and ensure all government decisions consider the impact of policies on climate change.
Photos:
Greenpeace activists attend NSW Labor’s Premiers’ Dinner with climate message
For interviews:
Greenpeace Australia Pacific Communications Campaigner, Martin Zavan
0424 295 422