ATA NEWS: Emissions trading to see coal industry compensated, but solar homes left out
The government must fulfil its election commitment to help homes install climate-friendly technology by introducing a national solar feed-in tariff scheme, says Australia’s leading independent organisation for sustainable living.
The government’s decision to compensate coal fired generators under the emission trading scheme is disappointing, but with there is still an opportunity to also help homeowners, says the Alternative Technology Association.
Brad Shone, ATA’s Energy Policy Manager, says the government needs to rethink its priorities.
“The government’s recent means testing of the solar panel rebate scheme sees many homeowners having to pay full price for their installations, while the coal industry is being given a helping hand.”
Mr Shone says helping homeowners install climate friendly technology, like roof-top solar, should be at the top of the government’s climate policy.
“The benefits of small-scale renewable energy technologies reach far beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” says Mr Shone.
“Roof-top solar systems eliminate the need for costly extensions to the electricity grid and reduce demand on our already over stretched electricity supply.”
The electricity industry has earmarked $24 billion over the next 5 years to pay for expensive poles and wires to deliver electricity to homes.
Mr Shone says the government’s emission trading scheme is the first step in combating climate change, but a national, renewable energy feed-in tariff must be next on the agenda.
