RET Deal

While we have yet to see the full detail, the Hodgman Liberal Government welcomes news today that the Federal Government and Labor have reached a deal on the Renewable Energy Target.

We have long argued for a bipartisanship agreement which provides certainty for our major industrials and renewable energy sector so we can drive economic growth and create jobs.

We welcome the exemption for our trade-exposed major industrials and will continue to advocate for a pro-Tasmanian outcome with increased reward for our Hydro generation.

It is disappointing, but not surprising, to see Federal Labor remains opposed to the inclusion of wood residues, however we’re pleased the Federal Government believes this measure can still be passed through the Senate.

It is important that all possible uses for wood residues are available in order to maximise jobs in the forest industry, and there is no doubt that using wood residue to create renewable energy is preferable to exporting woodchips.

For all of Labor leader Bryan Green’s talk of ‘thumping the table’ in Canberra on wood residues, Federal Labor’s position shows just how little influence he has, even in his own party.
Matthew Groom, Minister for Energy