Hundreds of solar businesses demand government keeps RET
Media Release
04 September 2014
Close to 500 solar businesses representing 3,700 employees have signed a letter calling on the Federal Government to back jobs and investment in the solar industry by maintaining the Renewable Energy Target.
The joint industry letter, coordinated by Solar Citizens and the Australian Solar Council and signed by 470 businesses, was accepted by Palmer United Party Senate Leader Senator Glenn Lazarus at Parliament House today.
“By attacking the Target, the government is risking 15,000 jobs in the solar industry,” said Chief Executive of the Australian Solar Council John Grimes.
“Cutting the Target will mean many Australian families who run small businesses will have their livelihoods ripped out from underneath them,” said Solar Citizens Campaigns Director Claire O’Rourke.
“Australians want the Renewable Energy Target, which is why more than 1.2 million homes have installed solar power, creating thousands of jobs along the way.”
“There are 4,500 solar businesses operating in Australia, the vast majority them small and medium sized businesses,” said Mr Grimes.
“The Abbott government has broken yet another election promise, this time to maintain the Renewable Energy Target and placing the future of an entire industry in jeopardy.”
“Instead of favouring the interests of big energy, the government needs to stand up for Australian businesses and keep the Target strong,” Ms O’Rourke said.
