Industry body slams fuel security announcement as a 'drop in the refinery'

THE Smart Energy Council has slammed the Morrison Government’s announcement of $250 million to oil refineries as a “drop in the refinery in response to a fuel security crisis”.

“Providing $250 million to address a fuel security crisis is like putting $1 in the tank when you’re running out of petrol,” Smart Energy Council chief executive John Grimes said.

“After nine years of inaction from the Federal Government, Australia is facing a genuine fuel security crisis. If Australia’s supply routes are blocked, we have at most three weeks of supply before we run out of petrol and diesel.”

“Australia’s fuel security is an absolute disgrace. We desperately need a national fuel security policy and a national energy policy," he said.

“Scott Morrison’s gift to the oil companies and a short term drop in fuel excise is no substitute for a comprehensive plan.

“Australia needs to be investing in electric vehicles and zero emissions transport, renewable energy and renewable hydrogen, creating the jobs and industries of the future.

“We cannot dither any longer. We need national leadership on this critical issue.”

Emergency Fuel Security Summit, Sydney, April 21

The Smart Energy Council will be hosting an emergency Fuel Security Summit at the Hilton Hotel, Sydney, on April 21, to call for a national fuel security strategy. Keynote speakers include:

• Admiral Chris Barrie AC, Chief of Australian Defence Force 1998-2002;
• Professor Ross Garnaut AC, chairman Sunshot Zero Carbon Futures and director ZEN Energy;
• Zali Steggall MP, Member for Warringah;
• Cheryl Durrant, executive member, Australian Security Leader's Climate Group;
• Councillor, the Climate Council;
• Behyad Jafari, CEO Electric Vehicle Council;
• Richie Merzian, director Climate and Energy Program, The Australia Institute; and
• Allegra Spender, Independent candidate for Wentworth.

The Smart Energy Council is an independent peak body for the solar, energy storage and renewable energy industry.

 

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