Cheaper power prices have been flagged as a result of more renewable energy investment as the government lauds an increase in project approvals.
Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek said she has approved 11 renewable energy projects since taking office 10 months ago.
She says the approvals double the former government’s tally of five as she hailed the government for creating “an environment of certainty” for investors.
“We’ve got more businesses wanting to invest in renewable energy projects, because they know we’ve got a target of 82 per cent renewable energy in our grid by 2030,” she told ABC radio.
“We’re decarbonising our economy by getting cheaper, cleaner, renewable energy into people’s homes and businesses.”
But about 95 projects still lay before the minister for approval.
They include the Port Hedland solar project in Western Australia, the EnergyConnect NSW-Eastern Section transmission lines, and solar and wind farms in Queensland and South Australia.
However, the minister has come under fire from environmentalists for also approving new gas projects.
She shrugged off suggestions the investment in renewables was being offset by greenlighting new fossil fuel projects.
“It’s a bit disingenuous of critics to be focusing on one project increasing in size by 1.3 per cent,” she said of the Santos Surat Basin project.
Ms Plibersek said the critique ignored the fact there has been a massive uptick in businesses wanting to invest in renewables in Australia.
– AAP
