The Nationals leader and Member for Murray Plains, Peter Walsh, says the $1 billion Victorian hydrogen strategy released by The Nationals and Liberals ahead of the Victoria state election restores hope for more efficient and sustainable energy solutions for regional Victoria.
Mr Walsh describes the Victorian gas reservation policy for new gas developments as “a fantastic solution for regional Victoria” and sustainable new energy future.
“The policy includes a commitment to hydrogen, a boost for locals seeking solar panels and batteries at home and more opportunities for renters,” Mr Walsh says.
“Victoria is facing a shortage of natural gas for its approximately 2.2 million customers with a metered natural gas connection,” he says.
“Victorian households and businesses are more dependent on natural gas to satisfy their energy needs than other states.
“The number of households requiring gas in Victoria is growing, with 3500 new supply points on average connected every month.
“Residential and commercial users account for 58 per cent of Victoria’s total gas consumption; the highest percentage of any state – and heating represents a significant proportion of this usage.
“Natural gas supply shortages mean higher costs for Victorian consumers, and a higher risk of blackouts at times of peak demand for energy.”
Mr Walsh says an affordable and reliable energy system is what we need for our regions – it helps back our current energy industries and their workers in our community.
He says The Nationals and Liberals are committed to utilising local gas for local needs to ensure the lights stay on and energy prices for families in across regional Victoria are kept to a minimum.
“A Liberals and Nationals Government will support the development of onshore conventional natural gas as an affordable, reliable source of energy for Victorian families and businesses, and as a sustainable pathway to achieving lower greenhouse gas emissions,” he added.
“Only a Liberal and Nationals Government will genuinely work to rebuild and recover Victoria’s future.”