SLASHING QLD FEED-IN PRICE WOULD BE CLEAR DISCRIMINATION AGAINST SOLAR HOMEOWNERS
Solar Citizens calls on the Qld Government to remain firm in its commitment to support Queensland households that have chosen to invest in solar to take control of rising power bills.
National Director Claire O’Rourke said the Palaszczuk Government was voted in with a commitment to a fair price for solar homes owners, which is something 420,000 Queensland solar families support. A cut in the solar tariff would be a huge step backwards for the Sunshine State.
“Solar power early adopters helped kick-start the solar revolution in Queensland stimulating an industry that is leading Australia and the envy of the cleantech world. These pioneers paid five times or more what a system costs today out of their own pocket and are yet to pay off their systems,” she said.
“The fact is, the majority of the average electricity bill in Queensland is network charges, the poles and wires, that often makes up more than 50% of the total bill. This was driven by the massive overspending on poles and wires, known as ‘gold-plating’ of the electricity grid”.
“Laying blame on solar owners for a rise in power bills is misguided to say the least. Australians want more solar and renewables, not less and people overwhelmingly want to see clean energy supported.
“The uptake of solar is highest in low-medium income suburbs - the main reason these families go solar is to help with the rising cost of power bills and most early adopters are yet to have paid off their system
“The Palaszczuk Government was elected on a strong solar platform promising to honour the solar bonus scheme, support a target of 1 million solar rooftops and 50% renewable energy by 2030.
“We commend the Palaszczuk Government on these policies, which will help keep Queensland out in front on the race to clean, renewable power,” Ms O’Rourke said.
Media contact: Siobhan Lyttle 0432 828 004
