The Latrobe Valley needs renewables not Abbott’s coal peddling

As former prime minister Tony Abbott tours the Latrobe Valley today to campaign for a government-funded coal power station, Environment Victoria is calling for 10 percent of Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target to be developed and delivered in the Latrobe Valley.

“The Latrobe Valley is in a period of transition and needs people who are genuine about helping create tomorrow’s jobs, not politicians promising new polluting coal projects that will never eventuate,” said Environment Victoria Campaigns Manager Dr Nicholas Aberle.

“The Latrobe Valley should be part of this shift to cleaner air and renewable energy jobs, and that’s why we believe 10 percent of Victoria’s Renewable Energy Target should be developed and delivered in the Latrobe Valley.”

“Calling for another coal-burning power station is a waste of the Latrobe Valley’s time. It is a distraction from the much more important objective of supporting communities as the world continues to respond to the climate crisis and transition away from coal.

“Abbott’s comments show that he has no interest in doing anything about global warming. This is dangerous, irresponsible and completely out of touch with modern Australia.

“This is not the 1950s. The time for building new coal power stations has long gone. Every time Tony Abbott promotes coal, he’s reinforcing the message that it’s a fuel of the past.

“All politicians need to get on board with repowering Australia with clean renewable energy that doesn’t destroy our climate or pollute our communities.”