Australia maintains renewable energy target
Australia will stay committed to its goal of generating 20% of the nation’s energy from renewable resources, despite proposed amendments to legislation.
The country’s Renewable Energy Target Scheme (RET) will consist of two parts: support for households using solar panels and solar hot water systems, and the development of wind farms, commercial solar and geothermal projects. Australia expects that the second part of the plan will help the country reach its renewable energy target by 2020.
Other amendments to Australia’s renewable energy laws include increasing the country’s target in the years 2012-13 with subsequent modifications. Regulatory powers will also be granted for the adjustment of solar panel credits and for reviewing the price of renewable energy certificates.
Climate Change Minister Penny Wong has noted that the legislation and its amendments are “imperative for the ongoing growth of the renewables sector.”
The amended legislation is expected to come into effect on January 1, 2011.
