Greens would transfer coal funding to wave research

“The Greens want to redirect Commonwealth funding for clean coal research to renewable energy research and development in wave, solar and wind energy.” Senator Nettle said.

“67% of the government's $500 million Low Emissions Technology Demonstration Fund is currently directed to clean coal for the coal industry.

“The Oceanlinx wave energy converter at Port Kembla shows what can be done when investments are made in Australian renewable energy technology."

"Wave power should be at the forefront of Australia's strategy for fighting climate change," Senator Nettle said.

"Instead the government is pouring money into the coal industry and our renewable industry is going overseas."

"The Greens want to see the $500 million earmarked for the Low Emissions Technology Fund redirected into renewable energy research."

"Labor has also said they would spend another $500 million on a national clean coal fund. The Greens believe that money should be put into renewable research as well."

"The multi-billion coal industry should be cleaning up it own act and not expecting hand outs from government. They are creating the pollution, they should pay."

"Wave energy is already operating in Portugal and the UK and should be being supported in Australia."

"It is a tragedy that wave technology like I saw today is already working overseas but in Australia it is not getting the support it needs."

"Taking the next step in renewable research and development will boost jobs and reenergise Australia's manufacturing industry. It can create many jobs in the Illawarra for the long term."

"Labor and the government's energy research priorities are upside down, The Greens will restore the balance and help unleash renewable energy and a low-carbon economy."

For more information: Kristian Bolwell 0411 638 320