The Australian Greens party is urging that the $11 billion in annual Federal Government subsidies be redirected to accelerate a community-led transition to renewable energy.
According to the Greens, Rio Tinto’s recent deal to purchase all energy produced by the Upper Calliope Solar Farm would only deliver one quarter of the wind and solar energy needed to power its Gladstone alumina and aluminum operations.
However, Rio Tinto has outlined that upon approval and completion, the Upper Calliope Solar Farm has the potential to decrease its operational carbon emissions by 1.8 million tonnes annually.
The party is calling for support from industry, business, unions, and climate and energy organisations for renewable energy and electrification investments of at least $100 billion.
Gladstone-based Greens spokesperson on Industry, Transition, and Regional Development Senator Penny Allman-Payne said in a statement that with Cyclone Kirrily bearing down on the Queensland coast, Australians are reminded of the cost of coal and gas and the urgent need to transition to an economy powered by clean, cheap renewable energy.
“Australia can become a renewable superpower, but if we don’t act soon to transition our industries away from fossil fuels, we risk getting left behind as the rest of the world moves on,” Allman-Payne said.
“The energy transition needs to be driven by public investment, community and government-led, with full, transparent, and timely engagement, including the free, prior, and informed consent of Traditional Owners, and protections for workers.”
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