The energy industry today welcomed the draft report of the Queensland Productivity Commission’s (QPC) inquiry into solar feed-in pricing.

The Australian Energy Council’s chief executive Matthew Warren says the QPC’s work confirms that solar energy is now an established part of the energy network.

“It can be bought from energy retailers at prices that no longer require subsidies. The solar subsidies in Queensland and other states weren’t free. They were paid for by other, often low-income, consumers who didn’t have solar PV, including renters, apartment dwellers and businesses,” Matthew said.

“Solar is no longer an emerging technology that requires assistance to make it to market.  It has arrived, in large and growing numbers.  It has become so ubiquitous so quickly, no longer requiring government support.

“Queensland now has amongst the highest penetration of household solar PV in the world. The transition to market-based feed-in tariffs in South East Queensland has not impeded the continued deployment of solar PV with installation rates at around 3,000 solar PV units each month.

“Queenslanders now enjoy a range of innovative deals for solar systems, storage and other new energy technologies.”