Queensland LNP MP Calls for More Privately-owned Electricity Generation
30 July 2020: Queensland LNP MP Calls for More Privately-owned Electricity Generation
A week after Queensland’s Shadow Energy Minister Michael Hart said the state LNP had no intention of investing in new coal generation in Queensland, MP Dale Last has come out clarifying that they do support more private generation, including new coal.
Mr Last told the Daily Mercury, “The LNP will facilitate private sector investment in new electricity generation in Queensland, including coal-fired power stations by streamlining the approval process.”
“New generators should be funded, built, owned and operated by bodies other than the state government to boost competition and lower prices,” he said.
Community group Solar Citizens has called out the state opposition for supporting more private and expensive coal generation.
“Queenslanders have shown time and time again that we don’t want private companies to control the majority of our electricity assets, and yet here we are again,” said Solar Citizens’ National Director Ellen Roberts.
“Now is the moment to invest in more publicly-owned renewable energy, so we can power the Sunshine State with cheaper energy that’s owned by Queenslanders.
“A new coal-fired power station will not get off the ground without substantial government subsidies. The proposed Collinsville coal generator is very unlikely to go ahead, and saying otherwise is lying to Queenslanders.”
Media contact: Ellen 0408 583 694
