Tasmania is the envy of the world when it comes to energy security, low electricity prices and being powered by 100 per cent renewable energy. That's why Tasmanians can feel reassured that our state's energy security is on a very firm footing and in fact, it has never been more secure.
Following the Cattle Hill and Granville Harbour wind farms coming on line late last year, Tasmania became the first jurisdiction in Australia to be 100 per cent self-sufficient in renewable electricity. We're building on this nation-leading momentum, having legislated to double our renewable energy capacity to 200 per cent by 2040.
Our energy security is underpinned by our Hydro storage levels, which is renewable energy in the bank and is at the highest levels since 2014.
We are in a good place when it comes to a secure energy supply, but we're also planning for the future and all scenarios. This is why we continue to closely monitor water storage levels and will request early action from Hydro Tasmania if Tasmania's energy security position is ever threatened.
In relation to the Basslink interconnector, despite the announcement that Basslink Pty Ltd will enter voluntary administration, it's important for Tasmanians to be reassured there are provisions for the cable to continue to operate efficiently and reliably, connecting Tasmania to the national electricity market. Similarly, when it comes to the commercial negotiations between Hydro Tasmania and the Tasmanian Gas Pipeline, these also do not threaten our state's energy security as some would claim.
The Tasmanian government's priority is to protect the interests of Tasmanians and we are committed to retaining the Tamar Valley Power Station, which enhances our state's energy security by providing a diversity of generation options. Hydro Tasmania's CEO Ian Brooksbank has also put on the record in this paper that "Hydro had no plans to decommission the combined cycle turbine" at the Tamar Valley Power Station. The Government will ensure the outcome of negotiations between Hydro and TGP is in the best interests of Tasmanians.
Our government's track record on delivering for Tasmanians when it comes to energy policy is clear. Since 2014, electricity prices, in real terms, have decreased by 18.04 per cent for residential customers and decreased by 27.18 per cent for small business customers. Tasmanians should be reassured that our energy security is stronger than ever and that the government will always act in the best interests of Tasmanians.
- Guy Barnett is Energy and Emissions Reduction Minister
WE NEED TO PLAN FOR BAD TIMES
There can be few among us who do not recognise that the world's climate is changing dramatically. From prolonged drought and starvation in Madagascar, to floods across Northern Europe, drought and devastating fires in the North-East of the US, our climate is less predictable, extremes becoming more the norm. This is what the Glasgow conference is all about.
Many of us are critical of Australia's belated actions. How can we continue as the world's biggest exporter of coal, the sinister culprit in much of the world's woes?
We are enjoying bounteous times in Australia at this time, with good rains and record primary production.
Are we taking this opportunity to save and prepare for the bad times that will inevitably follow? Are we each playing our part, conserving, recycling, leaving a smaller footprint of our existence? Have we determined that our next car will be an electric one, if indeed we need a car at all?
Dick James, Launceston.
NATIVE LOGGING
PERHAPS those in the tourism and hospitality sector advocating for the abolition of native forest logging should publish a list of their full business names.
Then the general public could choose to boycott those businesses.
Alan Castley, Norwood.
THANKS FOR HELPING
A good Samaritan assisted me last week in Launceston when I had a fall & took me to a medical centre and after that accompanied me to ED LGH and waited for my admission etc, all staff were extremely professional, the good Samaritan returned the next morning to return me to the Mercure where I was a guest, my sincere thanks to all.
Barry McCarthy, Sandy Bay.
TOUCHED BY TRIBUTE
As a Launceston born and raised Vietnam veteran with 28 years' army service, I was very moved by the article in The Examiner on the November 11 about grade 12 students at Launceston Grammar, commemorating the life of past student Richard Edward Atkinson, who was KIA while performing service for Australia.
I thought it was a very fitting and moving tribute to Richard and his family for Remembrance Day. This tribute makes one realise that Australians still remember those who fought for our country, and especially those who made the extreme sacrifice.
Larry Smith, Point Vernon.
READ MORE: Man found dead after search for missing boat
WALL-TO-WALL LOCAL
IF THE proposed mural for the wall of 115 George Street is to celebrate flora and fauna, let's showcase flora endemic to Tasmania.
There are over 527 plants to choose from. Replace the South African proteas with Tasmanian waratahs and select another Tasmanian plant that will provide the required balance/colour to the composition, while at the same time increasing public awareness of the beauty of our Tasmanian plants.
