Additional Comments by Senator Xenophon

Introduction

1.1        During the inquiry into the Safe Climate (Energy Efficient Non-Residential Buildings Scheme) Bill 2009, it appeared that many held the view that formulating a plan to reduce Australia's emissions is a case of one or the other – a carbon pricing scheme or a certificates trading scheme.

1.2        However, complementary measures to a carbon pricing scheme, such as a certificates trading scheme, is not only necessary but is a workable plan.

1.3        White certificates are tradable documents which certify that a certain reduction of energy consumption has been attained by a building owner, and is partnered with an obligation to achieve a certain target of energy savings.

1.4        White certificates schemes currently operate in New South Wales (The Greenhouse Gas Reduction Scheme), the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria (The Victorian Energy Efficiency Target Scheme) and South Australia (Residential Energy Efficiency Scheme), and are a smart and effective way of reducing emissions.

1.5        Complementary measures, in addition to a carbon trading scheme is vital to reducing emissions.

1.6        Unfortunately an amendment in my name to introduce such a scheme was moved to the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme package of Bills but was unsuccessful.

Senator Nick Xenophon
Independent Senator for South Australia

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