WE'RE STILL WAITING FOR YOUR CALL, TONY

Mark Butler MP.

Shadow Minister for Environment
 Climate Change and Water

Date:  18 April 2015

Tony Abbott has promised COAG an end to the impasse on the Renewable Energy Target (RET), but Labor has had no approach from the Government since early March. 

Labor announced last week we will support the Clean Energy Council’s compromise position on the RET of 33,500GWh by 2020. 

Tony Abbott reportedly told state and territory leaders the issue ‘will not drag on’ and the final COAG Communique called for a ‘speedy resolution’. 

“Tony Abbott has made no attempt for an acceptable resolution to the RET debacle he created, let alone for a speedy one,” Shadow Minister for Climate Change Mark Butler said. 

“To assure COAG members it will not drag on is simply laughable. It’s been dragging on for more than 12 months, ever since Tony Abbott appointed a climate sceptic to review the RET. 

“Yesterday, Australia’s biggest energy providers announced it will plan to develop and increase renewable energy generation. 

“On Tuesday, figures released showed investment in Australia’s renewable energy industry was at a standstill. 

“On Monday, figures released showed more than 2000 jobs had been lost in the renewable energy industry. 

“Tony Abbott has got to follow through on his promise to COAG members and put an end to this disastrous situation of his own making.” 

Labor stands ready to accept a RET of 33,500GWh, as proposed by the Clean Energy Council, to stop the loss of further jobs and investment. 

Labor will use this target as a floor and if elected, acting on the advice of the sector, will increase the RET out to 2020 to bolster investment. 

Labor's support is contingent on the small-scale solar rooftop scheme remaining unchanged. 

In addition, Emissions Intensive Trade Exposed industries must be exempt, as Labor has consistently called for. 

Labor has a plan for renewable energy in Australia. Australia’s biggest energy provider has a plan for renewable energy in Australia. Will Tony Abbott join us and ensure certainty, stability and growth in this important industry?