TCCI and Clean Energy Tasmania launch get real on renewables campaign

Two of Tasmania’s biggest peak groups are launching a major campaign today, calling on the Tasmanian Government and federal parties to do more to support the State’s renewable energy sector.

 

The Tasmanian Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Clean Energy Tasmania want Tasmania to become a world-leader in renewable energy.

 

“The fact is for all the talk, we have seen very little action from the Tasmanian and Australian Governments when it comes to renewable energy development in Tasmania,” TCCI CEO Michael Bailey said.

 

“We need the Rockliff Government to get real on renewables and for this to be a key issue at the upcoming Federal Election and we are prepared to campaign for this for as long as it takes.”

 

Clean Energy Tasmania Chair, Ian Jones, said that 2025 was a make-or-break year for the renewable energy sector in Tasmania and the get real on renewables campaign would highlight the huge opportunities that Tasmania has.

 

“If we get this right, we can unlock over $25 billion in investment for Tasmania,” Mr Jones said.

 

“But if the Tasmanian Government and the next Federal Government doesn’t get real on renewables then the losses would be even bigger.

 

“The three key issues that this campaign will focus on are getting the Tasmanian Government to finally approve Marinus Link, getting the Tasmanian Government to commit to the North West Transmission Development and getting at least one of the major windfarm proposals off the drawing board and into the construction phase.

 

“The Tasmanian Government has to deliver on all three of these key measures this year.

 

“We are also calling on the federal election candidates to show their support and get real on renewables too.”

 

Mr Bailey said the campaign would include engaging with the Tasmanian Government, the Opposition and crossbench and independent MPs as well as federal candidates.  The campaign will include advertising and other steps to engage the community.

 

Mr Bailey said the campaign was prompted by a concerning release from the Tasmanian Government last week that cast doubt on the Government’s commitment to the North West Transmission Development.

 

“The North West Transmission Development is absolutely vital for the renewable energy sector and for the Government to flippantly cast doubt on whether or not it will ever go ahead was a complete slap in the face to the renewable energy sector and the business community more broadly.  This is too important to play politics with.”