VICTORIA has confirmed plans to step up its commitment to clean, affordable and reliable renewable energy, following an announcement to deliver a series of solar and wind projects in regional areas across the state.

Climate Council Acting CEO Dr Martin Rice said the Victorian Government move would boost clean energy generation, contributing towards the state’s Renewable Energy Target (VRET).

‘This is a major boost for what was once the nation’s Brown Coal Capital,” he said.

“This announcement means Victoria will soon be home to 6 new solar and wind projects, producing enough energy to power almost 650,000 homes.”

“These projects are further evidence that the transition to a national 21st Century grid, made up of clean, affordable and reliable renewable energy and battery storage is inevitable and it’s happening now.”

The Victorian Government announced that the new solar and wind farms will be constructed near regional towns and cities including Geelong, Mildura, Echuca, Warrnambool, Mortlake, and Benalla.

“Renewables are the cheapest form of new energy generation, so for Victoria to embrace clean energy such as wind and solar, transitioning away from ageing, polluting and inefficient fossil fuels such as coal, just makes economic sense.”

Dr Rice said the Victorian Government predicts the new wind and solar farms will cut the state’s greenhouse gas pollution levels by 16% by 2035.

While Australia’s greenhouse gas pollution levels have been consistently rising since March 2015.

“Victoria is doing its bit to slash pollution levels and to tackle climate change, now we just need the Federal Government to do the same for the rest of the nation,” he said.

“The Victorian announcement comes as the Federal Government confirms its canned the National Energy Guarantee, once again leaving Australia’s climate and energy policy missing in action.”

For more information, please contact Senior Communications Advisor Alexia Boland on 0430 511 068.

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