A Federal Coalition Government, if elected, will commit $300,000 to a Northern Adelaide solar town project, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary for the Environment Simon Birmingham said today.
Senator Birmingham said the Coalition would allocate a total of $300,000 intended for organisations within the Cities of Playford and Salisbury, following representations from Liberal candidates Tom Zorich (Wakefield), Sue Lawrie (Makin) and Nigel McKenna (Port Adelaide) and the local community.
The funds will be available as of 1 July 2014 under a Coalition Government to community groups to access solar hot water or solar energy.
Community groups that could apply to reduce their energy bills, and create a solar precinct centred on Elizabeth and Salisbury, include sports clubs, seniors clubs, ballet schools and scout groups.
“The Coalition recognises the potential to harness power at a local level. There is no better place for this project than in Adelaide’s northern suburbs that enjoy so much sunshine each year,” Senator Birmingham said.
“This is a very important and positive environmental policy. Grants would be assessed and awarded on the basis of the greatest savings of CO2 per dollar of funding.
“The $300,000 Northern Adelaide solar town project will support local solar projects put forward by community groups. Local organisations identified as potential beneficiaries include the One Tree Hill Institute, Elizabeth Football and Netball Clubs, Angle Vale Sports and Recreation Centre, Para Hills Football Club, Salisbury East Junior Soccer Club and the 1st Salisbury Scout Group.
The initiative is part of the Coalition’s Plan for Clean Air and supports our commitment both to reduce electricity prices while also meeting our climate change targets and supporting renewable energy.
“Labor has announced and scrapped, numerous programs including solar schools, solar hot water rebate and the multiplier on renewable energy credits, creating a roller coaster ride for the industry and customers.
Kevin Rudd’s Solar Flagships is yet to see one project built despite an original promise of $1.5 billion, four years ago.
“The Coalition is committed to taking direct action to reduce carbon emissions in a practical, affordable way.”