Australian Solar Energy Society

The Australian Solar Energy Society has welcomed the Government's confirmation today that the Renewable Energy Target will complement a carbon price.

CEO of the Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES), John Grimes, said:

"This announcement provides long-term certainty for the solar industry.  The Government's ongoing commitment to a Large Scale Renewable Energy Target and a Small Scale Renewable Energy Scheme, as well as a carbon price, is an important step to a clean energy future.

Solar companies have had enough of the roller coaster ride brought about by constant policy changes.  The roller coaster ride needs to slow down and stop.  Governments need to provide long-term policy directions.

Solar power is becoming increasingly competitive with polluting power.  With a price on carbon and continued support through the Renewable Energy Target, clean solar power and hot water will be the best option for homes across Australia.

Australians should remember power prices are mainly rising because power companies are increasing their investment in our creaking energy system.  Clean energy schemes are only playing a small role in price increases and are actually reducing the need for investment in energy infrastructure.

The changes announced today should stabilise the price of small-scale renewable energy certificates, which have plummeted in recent weeks, causing genuine hardship for solar companies.  These changes will also see an increased investment in quality solar products."

AuSES has also urged the Government to turn its attention to backing Big Solar.

"Big Solar has a bright future in Australia, but it needs support right now.  A quarter of the revenue from a carbon price should go into an independent Green Investment Bank to support large scale solar and the clean energy sources of the future through loan guarantees, capital grants and tax incentives.

"A carbon price alone will not deliver Australia's clean energy future.  A Green Investment Bank is an investment in the future."

AuSES has urged the Government to continue to work with the solar industry in developing policies that will build a strong Australian solar sector.