$96 million investment in climate change and green energy

Green energy funding to cut back energy and water consumption and combat bushfires, and a switch to clean energy in remote communities are part of the government’s $96 million environment investment. Climate Change Minister Kate Jones said the package was an important part of the government’s new climate change strategy that would be launched later this year. The centrepiece of the package is nearly $50 million to reduce power consumption. “These initiatives will ensure that Queensland remains at the forefront of the national response to climate change,” Ms Jones said. “(The measures) will help individuals, families and businesses and communities better prepare for the impacts of climate change, reduce their carbon footprint and ultimately save money on operating expenses. The program could save $4 billion in energy capital savings by 2020, she said. Some pensioners will also be able to buy fully installed solar hot water systems for $100 while eligible homeowners will pay $500. (June 16, 2009)