THE QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT’S announcement that it will install solar panels on dozens of hospitals across the state will reduce energy costs and create clean jobs, according to the Climate Council.
“I would like to congratulate the Palaszczuk Government on its decision to install solar on 50 hospitals. This is a no-brainer for Queensland. It will help get people back to work as well as tackling long term problems like climate change,” said the Climate Council’s CEO, Amanda McKenzie.
“The great news is that millions of dollars will be saved, which can be reinvested in health care,” she said.
Climate Councillor and public health physician, Dr Kate Charlesworth says making hospitals more energy efficient is critical.
“Hospitals use massive amounts of energy so it makes a huge difference if they are powered by solar. The rest of Australia should be following Queensland’s lead on this,” said Dr Charlesworth.
“The next step for Queensland will be to explore combining rooftop solar with batteries: further reducing costs and providing vital uninterrupted energy supplies,” said Dr Charlesworth.
Ms McKenzie has called on the LNP to match the commitment. “Investing in the health and wellbeing of our communities is a non partisan issue,” she said.
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