Aussie Climate Leadership - CSIRO Cuts Funding, Coal Spending 2X That For Renewables

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In response to questioning from Labor senator Penny Wong, CSIRO sustainable energy and environment group executive Stephen Morton said today the organisation had rejigged its research into renewable energies in 2006-2007 compared with last year. This would result in a $1 million cut in spending, Dr Morton told a hearing of the Senate standing committee on employment, workplace relations and education.

"In terms of the actual appropriation for renewables there's actually been a net reduction in actual dollars, has there not, between 2005-2006 and 2006-2007?," Senator Wong asked. Dr Morton replied: "I think the answer is yes. We're in the process of winding down one particular area of work in water splitting, and as a result of that there has been a slight reduction. "I would like the opportunity to confirm that it's in the vicinity of $1 million reduction."

Senator Wong also asked Dr Morton to explain why CSIRO was spending twice as much on coal, petroleum and gas research as on renewables. "We have substantial ... offshore deep-sea gas resources and CSIRO is making heavy investments in that regard," Dr Morton replied.

"My impression is the bulk of that investment is in exploration for gas and petroleum."

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http://www.wabusinessnews.com.au/en-story.php?/1/45072/CSIRO-spending-1m-less-on-renewable-energy-research