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Gippsland renewable energy transition event to be hosted by Friends of the Earth on 13 to 14 October 2023

Victoria allocates $1 billion to 4.5 GW renewables with Friends of the Earth's backing. Loy Yang A's 2035 closure and worker transition confirmed, AGL coal mine future uncertain, but Gippsland's transition promises jobs and climate action.

By news@gippsland - 21st August 2023 - Back to News

Today, the Victorian Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D'Ambrosio, announced that the government is investing $1 billion in renewable energy projects to deliver 4.5 gigawatts of power, equivalent to the output of the Loy Yang A power station. Friends of the Earth has welcomed this announcement and appreciates the role that the State Electricity Commission (SEC) will play in transforming the energy sector.

Friends of the Earth will host TRANSFORM on 13 and 14 October, aimed at inspiring and empowering attendees to seize employment opportunities in Gippsland's renewable energy transition

Loy Yang A transition

The minister, alongside AGL power company, also confirmed the 2035 closure date for the power station and a structured transition plan for affected workers. This will help ensure certainty for the Gippsland community. However, the plan allows for an earlier closure if Loy Yang A is no longer needed in the energy market.

"It's important that both federal and state governments accelerate the implementation of renewable energy to ensure a timely transition plan that benefits the community," said Wendy Farmer, Gippsland Community Organiser for Friends of the Earth.

While the Structured Transition Agreement provides a timeline for the closure of the AGL power station, the future of the AGL coal mine remains uncertain.

Renewable energy expo

Ms Farmer said, "The transformation of Gippsland's energy system represents a significant opportunity for job creation, regional investment, climate action and community income. With over $40 billion worth of renewable energy and transmission projects underway, the transition from coal to renewable energy is becoming a reality."

Today's announcement underscores the fact that the energy transition is already underway and is now unstoppable. In October, Friends of the Earth is hosting TRANSFORM, a 2 day expo on renewable energy which intends to inspire and empower attendees to participate in the employment opportunities in Gippsland presented by the renewable energy transition. The expo will inspire and empower attendees to participate in employment opportunities in the Gippsland renewable energy transition:

• October 13 and 14, Traralgon
• Transform Expo

Pictures from Friends of the Earth Australia Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com