On 19.11.14 WATCH emailed Labor candidate Jenny Podesta a questionnaire about her attitudes to coal seam gas, coal, renewable energy and climate change. Her responses are as follows:
1. I support a permanent ban on any new coal and gas mining operations in key areas in Victoria.
Agree strongly [x] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments: Nil
2. I support the government ruling out any further coal allocations or development of coal infrastructure.
Agree strongly [ ] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments:
(Ms Podesta did not answer this question)
3. I support a re-write of the Coalition government’s VC82 anti-wind laws, and instead using a science based approach for locating wind energy infrastructure.
Agree strongly [x] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments: Nil
4. I have a commitment to a state-based Renewable Energy Target (VRET) which would complement the existing national RET.
Agree strongly [x] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments: I would be looking for the government actively work with communities and local government to encourage and support RE programs and initiatives.
5. I support putting strong, science based emissions reduction targets back into the Victorian Climate Change Act.
Agree strongly [x] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments: Nil
6. I support re-starting negotiations for the phased shut down of the Hazelwood power station, and support replacing its capacity with renewable energy.
Agree strongly [x] Agree [ ] Neutral [ ] Disagree [ ] Disagree strongly [ ]
Further comments: