Youth organisation, Generation Zero, are pleased to see parties looking at solar power as part of a clean energy future,
and they would like to see this as part of more comprehensive plan for New Zealand to be independent of fossil fuels.
Generation Zero spokesperson Alec Dawson, explains “ Solar power has grown globally over the past few years with major
investment from countries such as Germany, as they diversify their energy generation.”
Government policy initiatives in Germany have increased solar generation by over 114% in 2012 to 2013, contributing 5.3%
of electricity generated in 2013. Germany’s solar policy is part of a broader energy transition from nuclear energy and
fossil fuels to renewable wind and solar as part of the Government’s long-term, comprehensive energy and climate
strategy.
New Zealand has just over 5% of its electricity generation from coal. Alec Dawson explains, “We are well positioned to
phase out remaining fossil fuels from current energy generation but this requires a comprehensive clean energy plan.
Solar power will need to be part of that plan.”
Alec Dawson; “It’s time for parties to be looking at the long term energy future of New Zealand. If other parties don't
like the Greens' Solar Homes policy we challenge them to front up with alternative policies to kickstart the clean
energy transition."
Alec Dawson; “A comprehensive plan to be independent of fossil fuels would require the government to commit to specific
targets for 100% clean energy with a short term plan to meet them.”
ENDS