Government welcomes report findings on energy

The findings of the Productivity Commission's final report into Private Cost Effectiveness of Improving Energy Efficiency have been well received by the Australian Government.

Australian Ministers for Industry, Tourism and Resources, Ian Macfarlane, and the Environment and Heritage, Senator Ian Campbell, welcomed the report's findings, particularly confirmation of the continuing need for national leadership in energy efficiency measures.

"The Australian Government remains committed to adopting cost effective improvements in energy use, which will have both greenhouse and economic benefits," Macfarlane said.

"For example, through yesterday's introduction of the Energy Efficiency Opportunities Bill, the Government is requiring the nation's largest 250 energy users to regularly identify, assess and publicise any energy efficiency opportunities in their operations," he said.

Senator Campbell said the recent COAG agreement to roll out smart meters nationally would mean all energy users would have a greater understanding of their options to reduce energy use and costs.

"Energy efficiency remains an essential component of the Australian Government's $1.9 billion national climate change strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change impacts," Senator Campbell said.

"Many opportunities to reduce Australia's energy consumption remain across all sectors. The Government is committed to realising these opportunities to support better environmental and economic outcomes."

The Australian Government's final response to the PC report is available at http://www.greenhouse.gov.au/nav/new.html