A LITTLE ray of sunshine goes a long way, according to solar panel providers who are urging the federal government to retain the Renewable Energy Target (RET).
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The federal government is considering a report it commissioned by a panel headed by leading businessman Dick Warburton which called for significant alterations to the RET. The present target is for 20 per cent of power generation to come from renewable sources within six years.
Local Electrical and Solar Service owner-operator Steve Coveny said the RET needed to be retained to ensure certainty within the industry.
“The federal government haven’t made a decision yet, which is good, but it’s concerning that we haven’t heard much since the (Warburton) report was released,” Mr Coveny said.
“Like any industry, if there’s uncertainty over a major industry target, business is less likely to invest in renewable energy and that has a knock-on effect to small businesses like mine.”
Mr Coveny met with Greens upper house candidate Lloyd Davies and South West Coast counterpart Thomas Campbell yesterday to discuss the issue.
Mr Davies said the Greens would establish a state-based RET if the minor party gained the balance of power in the Legislative Council.
“Both the Coalition and Labor have been very weak in their support of a renewable energy target for Victoria,” he said. “We need a robust RET to ensure the region’s renewable sector continues to grow, especially in the Portland region.”
?alex.sinnott@fairfaxmedia.com.au