THE CLIMATE COUNCIL has expressed concern after reports that, if elected, a Crisafulli government would undermine the progress underway to build more clean energy, resulting in worse climate pollution and energy reliability in the Sunshine State.
Climate Council CEO Amanda McKenzie said: "Queensland is the state most affected by unnatural disasters, from terrible floods, heatwaves and bushfires. Just this week the Emergency Leaders for Climate Action reported that Queensland bushfires have become more destructive and dangerous due to climate change.
"Climate action targets are important goals for slashing climate pollution. Having a bipartisan commitment in Queensland to long-term and medium-term targets has shown the rest of the country how it's done. QLD LNP Leader David Crisafulli must affirm that commitment to reassure Queenslanders that the climate wars are over and if elected his government would get on with the necessary action to protect Queenslanders."
Ms McKenzie said a new state government needs to get moving, not only to protect Queensland from worsening unnatural disasters, driven by climate pollution, but also to ensure the lights stay on.
"Coal-fired power stations are breaking down and closing down. Every day they stay open means another day pumping out more climate pollution and another day of paying for high maintenance costs. We are still talking about the consequences of the Callide power station exploding years after it happened. Now is the time to get on with building more clean energy.
Ms Mckenzie said Queensland is making progress, and should be doubling down on what we know works.
"Already Queensland gets 26.5% of its power from renewable sources and Queenslanders have embraced clean energy in their homes with half of all households already having solar panels installed; the highest penetration of any Australian state or territory.
"Queensland is the sunniest state and solar is the lowest-cost form of energy. Investing in renewables, backed by storage like batteries and pumped hydro, will ensure Queensland has affordable and reliable 21st century power. Growing clean energy is the measure of success for whichever government is elected as it will cut climate pollution and power bills at the same time.
"Support for renewables and climate action has made Queensland a desirable location for investment. But investors require policy certainty. Proposals to extend the life of old coal clunkers is like trying to flog a 50-year-old car – it's polluting, unreliable and exorbitantly expensive. It also scares investors away because of the uncertainty.
"Climate action must be bipartisan so that all Queenslanders can benefit from slashing pollution and growing clean power."
