Howard Should Not Just be Focusing On Nuclear - David Llewellyn, MHA - Tasmanian Government Media Releases


Energy Minister David Llewellyn today said the Prime Minister’s Nuclear power inquiry should examine ALL energy solutions.
“John Howard was right on the money when he said ‘Australia’s Energy policies were out of date’ the problem is his inquiry is also returning to the past, rehashing old debates about nuclear reactors.
“In the national interest, Australia needs a proper debate about our energy future including renewable energy.
“There needs to be a marked shift in John Howard’s policies towards renewable energy for starters.
“If Australia wishes to keep any level of expertise and capacity in renewable energy technologies such as wind, then John Howard needs to support the Mandatory Renewable Energy Targets scheme.
“The Australian sustainable energy industry is growing at around 10% a year and national sales are estimated to be worth $3.8 billion a year.
“Direct employment levels in the renewable energy industry across Australia increased by 25% between 1999/2000 and 2000/2001 and by about 18% between 2000/2001 and 2002/2003.
“A great advantage of renewable energy developments is that they are best sited, in regional and rural areas of Australia.
“Public opinion in Australia, as in other OECD nations, unambiguously supports the renewable energy sector.
“In the face of all these indicators it’s increasingly difficult to understand the short-sighted view which the Australian Government has taken in refusing to extend MRETs, despite its own review recommending an extension.
“So while I do welcome the debate about nuclear power, this inquiry needs to open its eyes to all energy alternatives.
“I want a real debate about Australia’s energy future that looks at everything and anything.
“It’s too important to play politics with,” Mr Llewellyn said.