Green way to Glasgow – Clean energy bonds

National Seniors wants the federal government to issue Clean Energy Bonds allowing Australians to invest in the renewable energy projects to meet and beat emissions targets.

Just as in the Second World War when the government issued bonds so all Australians could fund the fight for a common cause, we want it to do the same now to address climate change.

This action will help raise the billions required for large scale renewable energy projects and infrastructure without raising taxes. It will stabilise the grid, lower energy costs, boost productivity, create jobs and most importantly meet Net Zero emissions targets (possibly ahead of 2050).

A clean energy fund within the Future Fund, will be able to fund clean energy infrastructure, like Snowy Hydro 2.0, and provide seniors with a secure retirement income stream.

Chief Advocate, Ian Henschke says the Prime Minister attending COP26 in Glasgow is a perfect time for the government, and all political parties to make a commitment to offer Clean Energy Bonds.

“These bonds will show just how many Australians are willing put their savings out there to help save the planet and meet and beat our 2030 and 2050 targets.”

Mr Henschke says the PM should ask Sir David Attenborough to be the patron and public face of the Clean Energy Bonds and ask him while they’re both in Glasgow.

“We know, just as Sir David Attenborough in his 90s is pushing for urgent action, so too are older Australians. Our research shows older people’s views on climate change have strengthened over the past 2 years. More than 85 per cent believe climate change is occurring and want to do their bit to build a better future.” Mr Henschke said.

“Many seniors have money sitting in record low-interest deposit accounts. Their capital is doing nothing and giving them and their country very little.

Clean Energy Bonds will give them a small return to bring about a big change. They want to do more than just have solar panels on their roof.

We are certain this policy will be a win for the environment, a win for Australians and a big win for a government wanting to meet and beat its emissions targets as fast as possible.”

/Public Release. View in full here.