LOCALLY-produced turbines and associated equipment should be used by the renewable energy sector, the state opposition has reaffirmed.
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South West Coast MP Denis Napthine toured Portland region wind farms with opposition environment spokesman David Southwick yesterday and met with business figures associated with the industry.
Mr Southwick said the state government had taken a more centralised approach to planning since coming to power with councils having less input.
“When the Coalition was in office, we recognised that people on the ground could make a valuable contribution,” he said.
“We’ve had some really constructive discussions over the renewable energy target and it’s great to see that we’re getting closer to a deal that will benefit jobs in this region.”
Mr Southwick and Dr Napthine met with Committee of Portland representatives before inspecting wind turbines near Cape Bridgewater.
“Keppel Prince produces great wind turbines here in Portland and what we’re saying to energy companies is that they need to source their materials locally whenever possible,” Dr Napthine said.
A select committee of senators visited Portland last week to conduct a panel hearing into concern over alleged medical issues created by wind turbines in the region.
Dr Napthine welcomed the Senate interest in the region and said it was important all sides of the renewable energy debate had their say.
“It’s good that supporters of wind energy and people with concerns about turbines can come together and discuss their case,” he said. “That’s a healthy way of working through the issues.”