Media Release 8 Nov 2010

'Transitioning Tasmania to a Zero Carbon Future'

Launch and press conference of the Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Report

Launch

WHEN: 11th November 6pm

WHERE: Hadleys Hotel, Bowen Room

Press conference

WHEN: 11th November 1.30 - 2.30pm

WHERE: Sustainable Living Tasmania, 1/71 Murray St

The Zero Carbon Australia Stationary Energy Plan is being launched in Hobart this Thursday, with the support of Climate Action Hobart. Researched and published by Beyond Zero Emissions and The University of Melbourne's Energy Research Institute, this is a cutting-edge report outlining how a 100% renewable electricity supply system can be implemented in Australia in the next 10 years.

The lead authors of the report will also be discussing Tasmania's unique potential to be an exporter of renewable electricity. "With its world-class wind resource and significant existing hydro capacity, Tasmania is well placed to integrate very high levels of wind power and be part of the global renewable energy boom," Said Matthew Wright, Beyond Zero Emissions Executive Director and report lead author.

Coordinator of Climate Action Hobart, Hannah Aulby, said it was time for the community to take the lead on climate change in order to maximise the economic and social opportunities.

"This is an amazing opportunity to use available technology, national research and local knowledge to transition Tasmania to 100% renewable energy. The Report outlines an affordable and innovative path for adapting our local economy to best handle the challenge of global climate change."

Matthew Wright says the new PM must consider the Zero Carbon Australia report's findings when developing government climate policy.

"All parties must incorporate findings from the Zero Carbon Australia plan into their climate policy. Our research shows that baseload renewable energy is now available and that Australia can get started building a renewable energy system, right now, today," says Matthew Wright.

Representatives from the media are invited to attend the launch of this ground breaking research. There will be opportunities for photos and interviews.

Speakers at the launch will include:

Matthew Wright and Patrick Hearps, authors of the ZCA2020 Stationary Energy Plan

Peter Rae AO, Chairman of the Tasmanian Renewable Energy Industry Development Board, Chairman of the International Renewable Energy Alliance

Todd Houstein, Executive Officer of Sustainable Living Tasmania

Media Contact: Hannah Aulby, Climate Action Hobart, ph. 0427 079 729 or Matthew Wright, Beyond Zero Emissions, ph. 0421 616 733