September 21, 2014 | Posted in: Uncategorized
This statement can be attributed to Daman Cole, Managing Director of Yingli Green Energy in Australia.
Statement by Yingli Green Energy on the Review of the
Renewable Energy Target
Yingli Green Energy Australia Pty Ltd* is fervently opposed to the abolition or weakening of Australia’s Renewable Energy Target (RET). As a subsidiary of the world’s leading manufacturer of solar panels, we believe a decision to abolish or dilute the RET is irresponsible. The recommendations of the RET review will increase electricity prices for homes and businesses in the long-term, leave a locally established renewables industry in turmoil, create impacts which are likely to see increases in severe environmental events, and leave negative consequences for future generations whilst impacting negatively on Australia’s international reputation.
Australia has been declared “open for business” yet this policy uncertainty is sending a negative message to investors and threatening investments in the development of the renewable sector.
Since the establishment of a direct presence in Australia in 2012, Yingli Australia has witnessed strong demand from businesses and consumers as they embrace the benefits of solar power. If the Federal Government changes its position on the current 2020 target of 41,000GW hours, Australia will be left behind in a world that is embracing renewable energy as a tangible player in the global energy mix. Australia’s extremely high levels of solar radiation mean that solar PV technology is particularly efficient in producing energy outputs. This country can lead in the adoption, investment and innovation in solar energy. Academically, our universities lead the world in solar photovoltaic innovation, but regretfully the political uncertainty is hurting Australia’s solar industry. While we remain stranded in uncertainty around Australia’s clean energy future, the solar industry is experiencing strong growth in many other markets such as China, Japan, South East Asia and the Americas.
We remain committed to maintaining a presence in Australia for our customers and partners. Yingli Solar and its Australia subsidiary will continue to stand together with the solar industry and Australians who believe in the future of clean energy in opposing the reduction or elimination of the RET.
