Uncertainty over feed-in tariffs is threatening solar businesses and customers around Tasmania. A group of people, renewable energy business, solar customers and community groups have got together to fight for the feed in tariff to remain unchanged at 28c per kilowatt hour. They have called themselves “Save Solar Tasmania.”

The uncertainty comes as Tasmania’s energy company, Aurora Energy, is set to be replaced by two private companies next year and the government has yet to say what will happen to feed-in tariffs. There will be a rally held in front of parliament house today with the group asking the government to guarantee the feed-in tariff for existing customers. The group says that many customers are cancelling orders due to the government’s indecision and lack of communication on the subject.

Spokesperson for Save Solar Tasmania, Jack Gilding said, “Media speculation, driven by the lack of clarity from the government, is resulting in customers cancelling orders and could risks businesses closing or laying off staff. Tasmania cannot afford to lose these jobs and investments.”

“The government is rushing headlong into arrangements for the privatisation of Aurora’s retailing of electricity, including putting legislation to Parliament this week, but has been conspicuously non-committal on the future of feed in tariffs,” said Mr Gilding

With a feed-in tariff that is on a 1 to 1 basis, (one of the best in the nation at the moment) there are many farmers and businesses willing to invest in renewable energies, giving Tasmania great potential to become “the renewable energy powerhouse of Australia.” Without a supportive government policy, this potential is jeopardised. With 10 000 households already having solar power installed on their roofs, there are many worried citizens waiting on the government’s decision.

The group are seeking for certainty for existing customers and asking for a “fair” public consultation and review for future feed-in tariffs that will preferable be set at higher than the wholesale rates considering renewables benefits.

Further details can be viewed on their website as well as their petition which is aiming for 1000 signatures.