Environment Victoria welcomes the support being given by the Andrews Government to the Newstead community renewable energy project in regional Victoria.
During the state election campaign, the ALP committed $200,000 to help the town of Newstead be powered by 100% renewable energy by 2017.
Environment Victoria Safe Climate Campaign Manager Dr Nicholas Aberle today said:
“Hopefully this is the start of something big from the Andrews government. This is a fantastic project, and communities around the state are keen to do the same thing. Government support can help get these important projects off the ground and grow green jobs right here in Victoria.
“At a time when we know we need to be reducing our reliance on polluting coal, projects like this allow Victorians to make a collective decision to be part of the solution and make a real difference.
“We look forward to seeing an ambitious Renewable Energy Action Plan rolled out across Victoria.
The Newstead project is not just about renewable energy, but also about improving the energy efficiency of homes. A key part of the town’s plans to become 100% renewable is reducing how much electricity it needs.
“Retro-fitting homes to be more energy efficient is a massive win-win. Even basic measures like insulation and draught-sealing can pay themselves off in no time and make homes more comfortable to live in – warmer in winter, cooler in summer.
“Cutting energy use has the added bonus of being better for the environment,” said Dr Aberle.
For comment:
Nicholas Aberle, Environment Victoria Safe Climate Campaigner
direct: 9341 8112
Mob: 0402 512 121