Massive Energy Surplus on Tap for NSW

Wednesday, 09 November 2005 10:00

The Real Solutions for NSW Energy, released today by the Australian Conservation Foundation and Total Environment Centre shows how NSW can increase its energy supplies by 50% over the next decade and beyond by pursuing renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency.

"This massive surplus of clean energy is just waiting for the go-ahead from Government," said Jeff Angel, TEC Director. "The challenge for the new Premier is to say no to the coal lobby and yes to clean energy."

"If NSW doesn't act soon we'll find the thousands of jobs in renewable energy going to other states and offshore. This is about economic and environmental sustainability."

The report shows how energy savings, renewable energy, cogeneration and efficient gas can deliver hot showers and cold beer well into the 2020s. The potential from clean energy is equal to more than six polluting coal-fired power stations.

"Climate change is threatening our way of life; clean energy can protect it," said ACF's Executive Director Don Henry. "And this won't cost the earth: saving energy is at least five times cheaper than generating it. Energy efficiency and renewable energy also create far more jobs than power from coal. NSW energy policy should not be dictated by the coal industry."

Coal fired power generates massive amounts of greenhouse pollution, increasing the impact of dangerous climate change. For every megawatt hour of electricity produced, coal-fired power creates 1 tonne of greenhouse pollution. This compares with 0.4 tonnes from efficient gas and no pollution at all from renewables like wind and solar.

For Comment:
Jeff Angel 9299 5680 / 9299 5599, or Jane Castle, 0432 287 554 Total Environment Centre
Don Henry 0418 507 395, or Jay Rutovitz 0407 481 885, Australian Conservation Foundation

Industry representatives available to comment

Business Council for Sustainable Energy: Ric Brazzale, 0419 522 659
Energy Efficiency Industry: Gavin Gilchrist, MD, Big Switch Projects 8270 7700 or 0407 663 125
Wind Energy Developer: Andrew Durran, Taurus Energy, 0407 206199
 

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