Rudd Stingy on Solar Schools Program

Author: Tony Crook
Published on: 20-October-2009

The Nationals candidate for O’Connor Tony Crook has condemned the move by the Rudd Government to cease all funding to the National Solar Schools Program until July 2010 because it has run out of money.

The Federal Government has closed off funding that allows schools to install solar panels, rainwater tanks and a range of renewable energy and energy efficiency measures.

“Considering the Rudd’s Labor Governments claim to have ‘green credentials’ and its focus on reducing Australia’s carbon footprint you’d think this program would be given some priority,” Mr Crook said

“The Federal Government slashed individual funding to the Solar Homes and Communities Plan and now they have under- funded a school based program to educate young people about renewable energy and climate change.”

Mr Crook said both initiatives provided excellent educational opportunities and real carbon reducing outcomes for the Australian community.

“If we are serious about addressing climate change in Australia, we need to be serious about educating young people about renewable energy and improving energy efficiency,” Mr Crook said.

“I’m also disappointed that the Federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett has failed to acknowledge the importance of the role that young people will play in addressing climate change in Australia.”

Mr Crook is calling on the Federal Government to continue funding the program.

“Ongoing funding will to not only improve education on renewable energy in schools, but will also provide certainty to the solar and renewable industry,” he said.