Australian energy authorities have been accused of trying to inhibit rather than spread solar power generation in the country, according to the industry group Australian Solar Council (ASC).
In a recent claim by the Australian Solar Council monopolists in the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) are deterring the spreading of solar panels across the country.
The AEMC according to the Australian Solar Council, are suggesting that solar PV does not reflect the reductions in network tariffs.
It claims that in other words the AEMC wants solar customers to pay as much as those without solar.
It says this does not come as shock to the public, as the long-term energy industry incumbents; who have relished market monopolies or semi-monopolies, are now in angst over the infiltration of solar PV in the energy market.
ASC says that in a new report the Renewable Energy Magazine, claims that “utilities in Australia are now pushing for higher network charges, refusing connections, removing discounts, forcing tariff changes on solar consumers and downsizing rooftop proposals in their bid to resist the growth of solar PV”.
The Australian Solar Council has proclaimed it is time for the current energy model to turn around to renewable solar energy; in order to provide Australia with the cheapest and most effective source of power.
It states that with more than four million solar voters having already investing in solar energy, a turnaround back to the old model is far out of reach.
As John Grimes, Chief Executive of the Australian Solar Council stated, “solar is here to stay, and it is set to grow rapidly in the coming decade.
“Better to find common ground now and manage the process, because if this turns into a major campaign, the public will win, as they should”.
ASC says more than 1.3 million Australian homes currently have solar PV rooftops; this is the number that the AEMC looks to keep it at.
The Australian Solar Council believes it is the voting public who will prevail.
Though they are willing to seek out an alternative route, “we are ready to work with the Australian government and current industry stakeholders to find a sensible path to a low carbon energy future for the primary stakeholders: Australian consumers” Mr Grimes said.
