Hydro Tasmania must focus on main job …

The Tasmanian Greens’ Energy spokesperson Kim Booth MP today called for a new corporate culture at Hydro Tasmania that was focused on producing cheap, reliable, renewable power for Tasmanians and put an end to financially risky overseas adventures.

“Hydro Tasmania under its former Chief Executive was involved in series of vain, empire-building escapades that cost taxpayers dearly and delivered nothing for Tasmanian power customers,” Mr Booth said.

“Hydro’s risky and often secretive overseas ventures in places like Sarawak and South Africa have cost Tasmanian power users through their energy bills.”

“I am urging Hydro’s new Chief Executive to put the needs of Tasmanian power users first, by concentrating on creating a sustainable and affordable energy supply for Tasmanians.”

“Basslink has been a financial disaster for Tasmania, and is another big mistake that the new Hydro chief must ensure never gets repeated.”

“Basslink not only costs $92 million per year to rent the cable, but it has meant that we are importing dirty brown coal power and exporting clean hydroelectric power at a lousy 5.5 cents average price per unit.”