According to reports, Premier Daniel Andrews has used a tour of the Ararat wind farm to confirm Victoria was committed to introducing its own renewable energy target.

The Premier’s announcement comes just days after the Abbott government faced a strong public backlash for its decision to ban the Clean Energy Finance Corporation from investing in wind and solar projects.

Friends of the Earth say a Victorian Renewable Energy Target must be the central plank of a plan to build wind farms and create jobs in Victoria.

“A Victorian Renewable Energy Target will help get shovel-ready wind farms built. It can create thousands of jobs across the state,” said Leigh Ewbank.

“If you want to make Victoria Australia’s renewable energy capital, then we can follow the lead of the ACT.”

“Construction of the Ararat wind farm is underway thanks to the ACTs Renewable Energy Target of 90% by 2020.”

Friends of the Earth says a Victorian Renewable Energy Target can win cross party support.

“If you support jobs, investment in regional Victoria, and climate action, then you’ll support a VRET.”

The VRET has the backing of the Greens and key upper house member James Purcell.

The opposition, which has appointed the first shadow renewable energy portfolio, could also back the scheme. The Ararat wind farm is located in the seat of Ripon, where Liberal MP Louise Staley has supported wind farms under construction thanks to the ACT government’s RET scheme.

“A Renewable Energy Action plan with a target will deliver transparency for Victorians, and accountability for the government — principles all political parties agree are important.”

Friends of the Earth say the Premier’s tour of the Ararat wind farm sends a clear message to the renewable energy sector that Victoria will be a safe-haven.”

“The Abbott government has deliberately sabotaged the renewable energy sector. Premier Daniel Andrews’ visit to the Ararat wind farm shows his government values renewable energy jobs and investment,” said Leigh Ewbank.

The state government’s Renewable Energy Action Plan is due for release later this year.

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