SYDNEY, Sept. 2 (UPI) -- As solar panel prices shrink, questions are arising about Australian solar state and federal government subsidies.
Australian Environment Minister Greg Combet remarked that the tariffs are sometimes unfair and too costly and he wants to speak to state officials about them, commenting that the federal government's proposed carbon price is "the most efficient, lowest cost way of reducing pollution."
A number of Australian state officials are concerned about the possible downsizing of federal solar subsidies, The Sydney Morning Herald reported Friday.
Queensland's Energy Minister Stephen Robertson commented upon the success of his state's solar program, noting that it "does a lot more than just help reduce carbon emissions. Queensland's Solar Bonus Scheme is the most successful scheme of its type in Australia. It provides Queenslanders with affordable access to solar energy, helping them save money on their electricity bills. It is also helping develop the solar industry in Queensland and create green jobs."
