Friends of the Earth Melbourne welcome the Andrews government announcement it will today introduce legislation to increase Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target (VRET) to 50 percent by 2030, saying its a clear step forward for the state’s energy transition that will create thousands of climate jobs.
“Every time Victoria increases its renewable energy target, the state will benefit from new jobs and investment in climate action” said Pat Simons, Friends of the Earth Melbourne’s renewable energy spokesperson.
It is predicted the increased VRET will generate thousands of jobs across the state, and secure and additional $5.8 billion in investment by 2030.
“Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target has been critical in kickstarting the sector after years of failure on the climate crisis by the Federal Coalition” added Simons.
“If we are going to avert the worst impacts of the climate crisis, we need to build an energy system powered by 100 percent renewable energy, and this announcement takes Victoria one step closer to that outcome” said Simons.
Friends of the Earth say the Andrews government can build on this announcement by:
- Delivering the next round of renewable energy auctions.
- Committing to power Melbourne’s train network with renewable energy.
- Paving the way for the landmark Star of the South offshore wind farm proposed off the coast of Gippsland South.
The announcement comes as the Victoria government prepares to set economy-wide Emissions Reduction Targets for the state.
Friends of the Earth say the litmus test for leadership is whether the government sets science-based targets that keep warming well below 1.5C.
“The increased renewable energy target shows the Andrews government has a plan to cut emissions in the electricity sector in a way that creates climate jobs,” said Act on Climate coordinator Leigh Ewbank.
Friends of the Earth have called on big polluting power companies to support the Victorian government’s renewable energy initiatives.
“The likes of AGL, Energy Australia and Alinta have a decision to make: will they be part of the solution to the climate crisis and invest in Victoria’s renewable energy future?”
Friends of the Earth will be paying close attention to the passage of the bill through state parliament.