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Renewables Investment Needed Now


Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP

Dr Rosalie Woodruff MP  -  Thursday, 14 January 2016

Tags: Basslink, Renewable Energy

Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Energy spokesperson

The government have told us the Basslink cable might not be operational until March 19 and our dam levels could fall to as low as 14%. If true, this will be 88 days without Basslink operational, which is a disturbing increase from the first estimate of 60 days.

There are consistent long-term projections for a drier southern Australia. This drought is not an exception, and it is a problem that will not be going away.

Today's announcement is further evidence that the time to embrace a secure and renewable future is now.

Minister Groom has trod a very delicate path to date on this issue, only repeating Hydro’s advice, but making no commitments as Minister. Tasmanians need a Minister who is capable of showing leadership and planning for a 100% secure and renewable energy future.

Tasmania’s energy comes from 77% Hydro, 12% Thermal (Gas), 10% Wind, and 3% Solar approximately. We are heavily dependent on hydro electricity and imported dirty coal power, which is why we're vulnerable.

Tasmania has a wealth of experience in renewable energy generation and an abundance of renewable resources to diversify our energy mix. We should expand these to complement our hydro water storage.