With Tasmania's energy future at a crossroads, Clean Energy Tasmania (CET) today issued its list of priorities ahead of the 19 July State Election.

Ian Jones, Chair of Clean Energy Tasmania, warned that Tasmania risks squandering its clean energy advantage without immediate action. "We're at a pivotal moment," Mr Jones said. 

"Tasmania can either cement its position as Australia's renewable energy powerhouse, or we can watch our competitive edge disappear as other states race ahead."

Seven-Point Plan for Tasmania's Energy Future

1.     Transmission Infrastructure 
The timely delivery of Marinus Link and North-West Transmission Development is critical, along with urgent upgrades to transmission infrastructure in key regions to unlock Tasmania's renewable potential.

2.     Clear Energy Strategy
A comprehensive off-take and firming strategy must be developed in partnership with CET and Hydro Tasmania to meet Tasmania's generation needs and legislated 2040 renewable targets.

3.     Fast-Track Planning
Streamlined planning and approval processes are needed to accelerate new wind, solar, and hydro projects and maintain Tasmania's 200% renewable energy target.

4.     Fair Energy Dividends
Tasmanian households and businesses must directly benefit from the state's renewable advantage through revised pricing policies or continued dividend sharing from publicly owned energy businesses.

5.     Offshore Wind Leadership
Active support for locally-based businesses bidding for Bass Strait Offshore Wind licenses and development of a Tasmanian Offshore Wind Strategy will maximize local jobs and investment.

6.     Grid Connection Reform
An urgent review of TasNetworks' connection process is required to provide certainty and clear timelines for renewable energy projects.

7.     Data Centre Preparedness
An independent expert white paper should examine how Tasmania can strategically attract and manage data centres while protecting energy security.

“The next government will effectively determine whether we lead or lag in the renewable energy revolution.

"The choices we make in the next term will echo for decades.  Will the next generation inherit a State that's harnessed its natural advantages to create jobs and lower power bills, or one that missed its moment through hesitation and half-measures?

"We're releasing our seven-point plan today, and we'll be watching closely to see who steps up with real commitments. 

"Tasmanians deserve nothing less than a comprehensive energy strategy that delivers jobs, lower prices, and a cleaner future."