This is a network of communities being badly impacted: the frontline of the National Rational Energy Network. Since the Federal election in 2022, it has become very clear that the Labor Government (with support from the Greens and "Teals") is determined to recklessly accelerate with what over 120 regional community groups believe is an untenable and extremely costly policy that precipitously phases out reliable coal and gas power against the backdrop of ever-increasing demand. The uncoordinated and rapid rollout rate, rash politicized positioning, and the extreme cost of this industrialisation (comprising large-scale grid solar, onshore and offshore wind turbines, limited 'firming' batteries, pumped hydro, plus transmission lines) is placing Australia at extreme risk, damaging vast areas of unique environment (green and blue country including endangered wildlife) and farmlands. It is undermining our productivity, economy, and national security. It is being funded using undisclosed taxpayer billions, most of which will be paid to mostly foreign companies now and for generations. This industrialisation is neither clean nor green. It will not lower the cost of living. The recklessness of this government's rollout means it is neither strategic nor integrated and lacks social and environmental license. The National Rational Energy Network (NREN) spans and connects these adversely impacted community groups. It enables connection between remote community groups, shares information, and delivers strong clear messaging to ensure elected representatives, the government, and all Australians know just how high the risks are. NREN calls for a moratorium on the reckless rollout of renewables. We call for a Senate Inquiry into the cost and due diligence with respect to the Capacity Investment Scheme, Rewiring the Nation, Offshore Wind Projects, and others. The Australian government is responsible for mitigating these extreme risks and issues and engaging authentically with communities and all Australians in a transparent and accountable manner. To date, the Australian government, in particular Chris Bowen MP, has failed.
