Howard, Rudd promise green energy millions

Prime Minister John Howard has announced that, if elected, his Government will create a $75 million scheme to support the development of renewable energy technology.

Businesses and researchers in the sector will compete for a share of the money through a competitive tender process.

Campaigning in Perth, Howard also announced that $5 million would be given to Carnegie Corporation, a local company engaged in the development of wave energy generation and clean coal technology.

Hot on his heels in the West, Labor leader Kevin Rudd has promised close to $500 million to put solar panels on the roof of every primary and high school in Australia.

Schools will be able to apply for grants of up to $20,000 to pay for solar power systems, Rudd says.
“We’d be reducing by the equivalent of 2.8 tonnes, of CO2 equivalent for the year in question,” Rudd says. “And it’s important that our young people understand the magnitude of the climate change challenge.”