Energy Black-out Threat - Whose Fault?

Monday, 28 July 2003 10:00

"Current proposals for additional capacity are bandaid solutions and once we have spent the $4 billion proposed for the next five years, we will have to spend another $4 billion after that - it is a financial and environmental crisis, if we don't change our ways," said Jeff Angel, Director of the Centre.

"Customers, whether small or large industrial, will suffer not only because of the need to pass on the cost of new infrastructure through price increases, but as the greenhouse costs of fossil fuels becomes a central part of our economy, there will be even more steep rises. More energy efficient housing and industry are the only sustainable solution."

"It has been estimated that savings of up to 50% can be made in energy use - this is far cheaper and far more environmentally responsible than pumping more fossil fuel power into the city. There is also the added benefit of the thousands of jobs that will be created," Mr Angel said.

"We also call on all parties, including the Opposition, to support a green solution and not engage in the 'blame and panic' game."