Published Date: 20 June 2008
Small-scale renewable energy options the best plan
“In the ten years since the market reforms of the electricity sector, there has been little evidence of the sort of planning which would deliver price stability and security of supply to consumers. Instead the opposite is demonstrably apparent” said Stephnie de Ruyter, Leader of DSC.
“The cost of electricity is now so high that keeping warm in winter is unaffordable for many families. And the threat of power cuts looms, again.”
Ms de Ruyter noted the government’s Energy Strategy had a target of 90% renewable energy generation by 2025. But she said that a plan for sustainable energy generation did not necessarily require the installation of large wind farms or the development of additional hydro electric power schemes or the abandonment of major industries such as the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter.
“A comprehensive long term plan which includes the widespread adoption of small-scale renewable electricity options, such as those promoted by Sustainable Electricity NZ, must be developed now, and implemented expeditiously.
“New Zealand’s energy needs are not going to reduce. Planning must ensure that electricity generation keeps pace with demand.
“It makes good sense for the government to invest in small-scale renewable options for households and communities. This could be accomplished by offering support for micro-power and micro-generation industries and by ensuring that adoption of these technologies is affordable by offering RBNZ interest free loans to homeowners for installation.
“Think Big schemes were last century’s failure. Think Small options will be this century’s success” Ms de Ruyter said.
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