Ian McLean Green Scene Spokesperson for the Green Party

The Green Party has just launched a Climate Protection Plan that would achieve carbon neutrality for New Zealand by 2050. The Greens are the only party to set the inspiring target.

News last week shows local business PowerSmart Solar is continuing its fantastic work installing Photo Voltaic solar power in the Pacific Islands.

Their win-win systems replace diesel generation with solar arrays that can service up to several thousand people, saving money and reducing carbon emissions at the same time.

There are now PV solar systems on many Tauranga houses, with the lucky owners paying next to nothing in power bills for years to come.

Local power generation – also called distributed generation – is a central part of any smart energy system. While it offers many benefits, most importantly it replaces carbon-based –coal, gas or oil – power generation with a sustainable alternative.

If we're to genuinely address climate change, distributed generation is a great way to go. If we underestimate or ignore the impact climate change is having on the planet, our children and grandchildren will rightfully demand to know why we ignored their needs.

The Green plan includes charging polluters for carbon emissions in order to fund tax cuts and more support for our Pacific neighbours, who are already bearing the brunt of climate change. The plan aims to show NZ can lead the way, and that carbon neutrality is achievable.