WORLD ENERGY OUTLOOK URGES INVESTMENT OF BILLIONS IN CLEAN ENERGY, AUSTRALIA SHOULD STAKE ITS SHARE
The International Energy Agency’s World Energy Outlook Report launched last night in London highlights the urgent need to accelerate the development of emerging renewable technologies that will transform the global energy system.
Increasing investment in renewable energy technologies in the power sector from $270 billion in 2014 to $400 billion in 2030 is a vital measure to ensure global energy-related emissions can peak as early as 2020 and at no net economic cost.
Solar Citizens National Director Claire O’Rourke said Australia’s Federal Government was going against global trends with its push to slash investment in renewable energy such as solar through cuts to the Renewable Energy Target.
“The International Energy Agency is the latest reputable global organisation to highlight the overwhelming benefits of growing renewable energy sources including solar and the economic benefits that flow from it,” Ms O’Rourke said.
“It’s baffling as to why the Federal Government continues its ideologically-driven attacks on clean energy and remains a laggard on exploiting cleaner, cheaper renewable power that benefits all consumers.
“Australia has some of the best solar resources in the world. We should be investing in developing the technology and skills to make us a world leader in solar energy, not putting barriers on solar companies and people who want rooftop solar.
“This report shows there are billions of dollars in global investment in solar in the pipeline over coming decades.
“Australia will be left behind if it doesn’t set a national goal of at least 50% renewable energy by 2030.
“A national goal of at least 50% renewable energy by 2030 will help millions of families go solar, create tens of thousands of jobs and ensure billions in investment for our sunny country.
“A strong solar future is what Australians everywhere want to see. We need strong political leadership who will deliver it,” she said.
Media contact: Amy Gordon 0410 631 404
