The government must fulfil its election commitment to help homes install climate-friendly technology by introducing a national solar payment scheme (feed-in tariff), says Australia's leading independent organisation for sustainable living, the Alternative Technology Association.
"The government decision to compensate coal fired generators under the emission trading scheme is disappointing, but with there is still an opportunity to also help homeowners," says Mr Shone, the ATA's Energy Policy Manager.
Mr Shone says the government needs to rethink its priorities.
"The government's recent means testing of the solar panel rebate scheme sees many homeowners having to pay full price for their installations; meanwhile under the proposed emissions trading scheme the coal industry will be given a helping hand."
Mr Shone says helping homeowners install climate friendly technology, like roof-top solar, should be at the top of the government's climate policy.
"The benefits of small-scale renewable energy technologies reach far beyond reducing greenhouse gas emissions," says Mr Shone.
"Roof-top solar systems eliminate the need for costly extensions to the electricity grid and reduce demand on our already over stretched electricity supply."
Solar panel systems produce most energy at times of peak demand – hot sunny days.
The electricity industry has earmarked $24 billion over the next 5 years to pay for expensive poles and wires to deliver electricity to homes.
"The government's emission trading scheme is the first step in combating climate change, but a national, renewable energy feed-in tariff must be next on the agenda," says Mr Shone.
