POLICY

O'Farrell Commits To Renewable Energy Buy-Back: Practical Measures To Address Climate Change

NSW Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell today announced a NSW Liberal/Nationals Government would commit to a renewable energy buyback scheme as a practical measure to help address the climate change challenge.

"People are looking for practical ways to help reduce the impact of climate change," Mr O'Farrell said.

"A renewable energy buy-back scheme is a great way to help people to do their bit," he said.

The renewable energy buy-back scheme - sometimes known as a feed-in tariff - will be a credit or payment to households, institutions or businesses for the renewable power they produce. This will include small-scale solar power from household rooftops.

It is estimated that if 5,000 households take advantage of the scheme, the reduction in greenhouse gas emissions is the equivalent of taking 16,250 cars off the road.

"As the only State Government not moving toward some form of feed-in tariff, the NSW Labor Government will lose all environmental credibility if it does not advocate this scheme at the 2 October COAG meeting," Mr O'Farrell said.

"Under Labor, NSW is running dead last compared with all other States and Territories on feed-in tariffs for households that supply green electricity for the overall grid.

"If Labor doesn't adopt our policy ahead of the election, we will move to establish this practical plan once elected in 2011.

"Climate change is such a big picture issue, people often aren't sure how to make a difference. This is one practical way people can make a real contribution.

"Some 45 overseas countries have adopted feed-in tariffs with considerable success.

"A buyback scheme can pay back the cost of a solar power unit in under ten years and is a great way of helping normal families, institutions and businesses to invest in renewable energy.

"As the energy sector changes, we will work with experts on the level, length and scope of our scheme, and will consider the experience of places like the ACT.

"In Australia, only NSW has failed to move toward a feed-in tariff that drives renewable power production, reduces the carbon footprint, recognises householders' initiative, and supports a sustainable industry and its new jobs for our economy.

"With every other State moving forward, the NSW Labor Government has no more excuses for its inaction.

"Premier Nathan Rees and Climate Change Minister Carmel Tebbutt need to show they are not just style but substance on climate change by supporting my policy.

"For all her rhetoric, the reality is that Carmel Tebbutt is a long-term senior member of a NSW Labor Government that has let NSW's greenhouse gas emissions increase by 7% since 2003.

"It's time State Labor stopped talking about climate change and started acting. If they don't, it's just further evidence that Premier Nathan Rees is a phoney," Mr O'Farrell said.

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