Clean Energy Council Chief Executive Kane Thornton said it was fantastic to see the Queensland Government stepping up to support major renewable energy projects in the Sunshine State and recognising the economic benefits they can deliver.

“Queensland households and businesses have already installed the most solar power in the country, and the news that the state government will increase its commitment to purchase the renewable energy from 120 megawatts of large-scale solar is obviously very welcome,” Mr Thornton said.

“This commitment of course leverages the great work of the Australian Renewable Energy Agency and the critical financial support it is providing for the deployment of large-scale solar throughout Australia.

“The Queensland Government’s commitment to its 50 per cent state renewable energy target is obvious, given the announcement of the 170 MW Mt Emerald Wind Farm last week.

“Nationally there is a big pipeline of renewable energy projects, but many are being held up trying to negotiate agreements with retailers and large energy users to purchase the power they produce.

“Support like that announced by the government today is exactly what is needed to get the market moving again, and will certainly make it more attractive for investors.”

Please contact Clean Energy Council Media Manager Mark Bretherton on 0413 556 981 for more information or to arrange an interview.