CEC launches renewables campaign to save RET from the axe  

Targeting key regions of Australia, the Clean Energy Council has unveiled an all-out media campaign to try to protect the current 41,000 GWh renewable energy target. Canberra, Tasmania and the Sunshine Coast will be blanketed with pro-renewable sentiment in an attempt to solidify the support of the Palmer United Party (PUP) senators living in those regions.

On Sunday, Prime Minister Tony Abbott met with Environment Minister Greg Hunt and Industry Minister Ian Macfarlane to discuss the possible futures for the RET amid growing speculation the government intends to reduce the scheme to only 27,000 GWh or give it the chop completely.

Previously PUP have voiced support for retaining the renewable energy target until the next election, however the Guardian speculates that they might be warming up to the government’s Direct Action plan for climate change, with Independent senator Nick Xenophon and Mr Hunt (one of the few MPs to vocally support the RET) onboard.

It’s believed that safeguards will be put in place to prevent emissions from manufacturing and electricity generation breaching acceptable levels. Placing limits on carbon emissions would presumably involve some kind of Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS), a concept that Clive Palmer has tentatively endorsed.

It’s also possible that the renewable energy target could be retained but expanded to include low emission technologies like gas and emission reductions made by the fossil fuel industry.

The CEC is steadfast in its message, that abolishing the RET would place 13,000 renewable energy jobs at risk, not to mention billions of dollars in investments and subsidies that keep technologies like solar panels a reality for average households. We can expect a week of feverish campaigning from their members.

We can only hope their message is heard!