Labor Party

Climate and energy security think tank Beyond Zero Emissions welcome the Labor government’s carbon price package negotiated with The Greens and lower house independents Rob Oakeshott and Tony Windsor. The proposed legislation will start the process of transitioning Australia from a 19th Century fossil fuel economy to a 21st Century renewable-powered cleantech economy.

Beyond Zero Emissions Executive Director Matthew Wright said the government’s decision to plan for a 100 percent electricity sector is an important step toward Australia’s zero-carbon future:

“The government has accepted the challenge layed down by Beyond Zero Emissions less than 12 months ago with the release of our Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Plan, which is still Australia’s only feasibility study for a renewable energy powered economy. Tasking the Australian Energy Market Operator with planning for a 100 percent renewable energy sector will encourage a rigorous public debate about the best mix of renewables to achieving that goal.”

While the carbon price package is a step forward, hard yards remain. Matthew Wright said:

“The proposed ‘clean energy future’ legislation reflects the politics of climate change but not the science. The world’s carbon emissions are continuing to grow rapidly, so it’s important for the government to strengthen its initial climate change offering where possible.”

Climate Change Minister Greg Combet has used a National Press Club address to announce that 50 per cent of proposed carbon price revenue will be allocated for household compensation. To lock in its credibility, the Gillard Government must allocate the other half to clean technology projects.

Matthew Wright, Executive Director of Beyond Zero Emissions (2010 Young Environmentalist of the Year) says:

‘The government must stand firm against the greenhouse mafia and use the remaining funds for investing in cleantech projects for the public good. It’s the only way for Gillard to lock in her credibility on this issue.’