More Coal Power or Green Energy Plan? Challenge to Premier

Monday, 29 September 2003 10:00

The Centre also released a five point plan for a sustainable and green energy future.

TEC Director Jeff Angel said a decision on the Redbank Power Station is imminent, while some government agencies were promoting the construction of a 1000 MW facility at Ulan. In addition, some senior Ministers are greenhouse sceptics.

"While the Premier has taken a leadership role on protecting the environment and reducing greenhouse emissions, the acid test is with these two power stations, which have powerful backers. With so many greener and cleaner alternatives available, this is the critical battle for our future energy supply," Mr Angel said.

"People who care about the environment across NSW are calling on the Premier to back smarter, cleaner strategies for meeting our energy demand."

TEC has today released a five-point plan for a sustainable energy industry for NSW over the next 10 years, which includes:

- government support for renewable energy technologies, including wind, solar and hydro;
- statewide take-up of solar hot water, including compulsory solar heating on all new properties;
- reducing energy demand and a 10 per cent levy on all air conditioners;
- greater use of cogeneration and gas to meet peak power needs;
- rescuing the failing government building energy management program;
- requiring energy companies to promote accredited Green Power amongst all customers.
Total energy available is in excess of 5,000 MW, about a 40% increase on current supply, including peak power.
"Rather than simply building more dirty power plants, there are a range of options available now, that the Premier could embrace to truly stamp himself as a green Premier," Mr Angel said.