WA takes a step toward a green energy future

WA Legislative Council passes a Greens (WA) bill for a 20% renewable energy target

The WA Legislative Council today passed the Greens 'WA Renewable Energy Targets' (WARET) legislation with the support of the Liberal and National Parties.

Senator Rachel Siewert has congratulated Paul Llewellyn MLC (Greens member for the South-West) for the result, which has been more than a year in the making.

"Kim Beazley has been trumpeting Labor's climate credentials – this is his first real test," Senator Siewert said. "He needs to get on the phone to Alan Carpenter this afternoon and encourage him to support the renewable energy bill in the lower house."

"This is a very important collaboration between the Greens, Liberal and National Parties which sets up the Western Australian economy for a big boost to the renewable energy industry.

Australian Greens energy spokesperson Senator Christine Milne said WA's Upper House support for the renewable energy target was not only good for the environment, it was good for jobs.

"It's a smart move for WA because the introduction of a Victorian renewable energy target has already led to new industries and jobs in that state," Senator Milne said in Hobart.

"WA is already demonstrating, particularly in the area of public transport and alternative fuels, that it is prepared to be forward-thinking and it is to be hoped that the state Labor government gets behind this renewable energy initiative."