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Minister’s certainty on gas a win for consumers and environment

Leading energy consumer advocate, the Public Interest Advocacy Centre has welcomed NSW Energy and Environment Minister, Matt Kean’s statements confirming gas has no long-term future in the state.

The Minister on Tuesday said, ‘the business case for gas is on the clock’, gas ‘may be useful in the short term’, but wind, solar, pumped hydro and batteries are ‘the future for New South Wales’.

‘The Minister’s comments reflect the advice of experts and calls from the community and consumers,’ said Craig Memery, Head of Energy Policy, Public Interest Advocacy Centre.

‘Gas is a polluting fuel that is increasingly unnecessary and uneconomical,’ said Mr Memery. ‘It remains a better option for some people and in limited applications, and that number is diminishing every year as electrical options become cheaper and more efficient.’

The Minister’s statements confirm consumers’ best interests in the long term are served through renewable energy, and signal the need for a plan to help households and businesses reliant on gas transition to the most cost effective, sustainable fuel options.

‘For many households, transitioning away from gas makes economic sense,’ said Mr Memery. ‘There are many ways the government can support people to switch fuels to lower energy bills and help the state meet its zero-emissions target. People doing it tough who are on gas, by choice or lack of choice, should be supported to afford it.’

The Minister’s statement also exposes the unsustainability of the gas industry and the federal government’s ‘gas-led recovery’ plans.

‘Let’s be clear: anyone still fighting to expand gas extraction is not doing it for the sake of energy consumers.’ said Mr Memery.

‘With Minster Kean’s statement, it’s time to imagine a low carbon future where people use the best fuels for their needs. The reality is gas has a limited part in that future.’

MEDIA CONTACT: PIAC Energy Communications Officer, Anna Livsey: 0478 739 280