Antinuclear

Queensland govt to axe popular solar feedin tariff

Queensland Government Announces Solar Feed In Tariff Changes by Energy Matters, 6 Mar 14, The Newman Government could experience a massive backlash after announcing the government mandated 8c per kilowatt hour solar feed in tariff component will be no more from July 1 for tens of thousands of Queensland solar households.

Ergon Energy customers will continue to receive a tariff paid by Ergon Retail; however Energex customers won’t and will need to negotiate a tariff with their electricity retailer. However, whether there will be any motivation for retailers to offer more than they currently are (6c – 8c in most cases) in addition to the current mandated amount remains to be seen as rates will not be regulated.

Solar households on the State’s previous 44c feed in tariff scheme will not be affected by the change.

While installing solar power will still be a solid investment post-June; the loss of the 8c component and leaving Queensland solar owners at the mercy of negotiating with electricity retailers has come as a shock and is not sitting well with many.

“Queensland is at risk of losing its reputation as the Sunshine State. Newman is bowing to big energy companies and ignoring the voices of the Queensland people,” said Lindsay Soutar; National Director of Solar Citizens.

“Not only is this short sighted for Queensland’s energy future, it’s short-sighted for Newman’s political future, as well.”
Solar Citizens has launched an online petition demanding the Newman Government reverse the decision. The group is encouraging all current and future solar owners throughout Australia to sign it and take a stand for solar in Queensland.

After hearing news of the announcement, Electrical Trades Union state organiser Stuart Traill reportedly stated the LNP has “a pathological hatred of renewable energy“.

The Newman Government certainly appears to be no fan of Australia’s Renewable Energy Target either; even though the RET provides many benefits to the wider community. Energy and Water Supply Minister Mark McArdle enthusiastically embraced news last month that the Renewable Energy Target review had commenced – a review that some feel has been rigged from the get-go to twist a knife that has already been sunk into the sector’s back. ……http://www.energymatters.com.au/index.php?

March 7, 2014 - Posted by Christina Macpherson | Uncategorized