By JONATHON HOWARD
MINISTER for Energy and Water Mark McArdle has defended recent electricity price hikes, saying any money gained from the increases will be re-invested into public services.
“Unlike the Greens, the (LNP) Queensland Government has a strong plan for a brighter energy future, PowerQ, that recognises the role of solar in electricity generation,” Mr McArdle told Noosa Today.
PowerQ is the LNP Government’s answer to the former government’s 2020 climate change and carbon tax plan, following the repeal of the Rudd Government’s Carbon Tax.
PowerQ is the LNP Government’s long-term strategy for the state’s electricity sector and was released in late June 2014.
According to the LNP website, PowerQ is set across a 30-year timeframe that is designed to help transition the electricity industry into one that is resilient, cost-effective and customer-focused, to support the economic and lifestyle aspirations of Queenslanders.
Noosa Today asked Mr McArdle whether the LNP Government supports green energy production.
“We support renewable energy where it is commercially viable and does not require subsidies,” he said.
Mr McArdle also sought to address residents’ concerns around the power price hikes and the usage of an estimated daily profit of more than $1 million per day.
“Dividends from the State Government’s power generation and distribution businesses are returned to Queenslanders,” he said.
“This year more than $662 million will ensure regional customers pay no more for their electricity than people in Brisbane.
“The money also helps pay for essential public services such as hospitals, roads and public transport.”
HAVE YOUR SAY: Do you think more money should be invested in solar and other green energy options?
