There's a bit of kite-flying going on in the coalition at present over the Renewable Energy Target. The renewables knockers in the Liberal and National parties are bringing out the ol' 'renewables are more expensive' stuck record and giving it a turn.
But the experience in South Australia shows that wind is keeping power prices down while cutting emissions at the same time. Here's a media release we put out, explaining the benefits.
MEDIA RELEASE:
Boswell is wrong: Abbott should support RET for lower power prices
Friday, 30 September 2011
100% Renewable Energy, a community energy campaign, said today that the coalition is overlooking the principal benefits of the Renewable Energy Target – that it keeps power prices down while effectively cutting greenhouse gases.
“The experience in South Australia shows very clearly that when the wind is blowing, wind farms out-compete gas and coal hands down,” said 100% Renewable Energy National Coordinator, Lindsay Soutar.
“This dramatically cuts the use of high cost, high pollution gas peaking plants so the price stays low and significant levels of carbon pollution are avoided.
“It is ironic that Senator Ron Boswell doesn’t realise windmills run for free when his party, The Nationals, is supposed to be the party closest to farmers.”
A recent analysis of South Australian electricity data from 2005-2011 showed that wind now provides 21% of that state’s total energy needs and power prices had remained stable in that time.
“As fossil fuel prices rise and costs for solar and wind continue their steep decline, Australia will reap the rewards in lower prices from programs like the Renewable Energy Target.
“Now is not the time to ditch the Renewable Energy Target.
“If Mr Abbott genuinely wants to clean up Australia’s highly-polluting power sector, he should stick with the Renewable Energy Target.
“Australia carries huge risk from rising fuel prices and international carbon prices for our coal- and gas-fired plants.
“The cheaper energy future for Australia is in renewables like wind and solar that get their fuel for free.
“We’re calling on Mr Abbott to pass on the lower prices and cleaner power enjoyed by South Australians to consumers all over the country.”
“This internal debate is the perfect opportunity for Mr Abbott to be clear with his party that renewable energy is the right path for Australia.”
FURTHER INFORMATION
Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) Report - http://www.aemo.com.au/planning/SASDO2011/sasdo.html
Windlab Analysis of AEMO Report - www.windlab.com/sites/default/files/20110915_SouthAustralianWindPower_DO_LHO.pdf
