New revelations have surfaced indicating that New South Wales (NSW) Minister for Energy, Penny Sharpe, overruled expert advice from the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) and her own department to keep the Eraring coal-fired power station operational beyond its scheduled closure in 2025. The decision has sparked intense criticism, particularly from Greens MP and Climate Change spokesperson, Sue Higginson.
Defiance of Expert Advice
The documents in question reveal that both AEMO and the NSW Department of Energy had recommended the closure of Eraring as planned, arguing that the state’s energy needs could be met through new renewable energy projects. Despite this, Minister Sharpe opted to keep the power station open, a move that has been met with backlash for undermining the state’s transition to renewable energy.
Greens’ Outcry
Sue Higginson voiced strong criticism, accusing the Minister of undermining the state’s climate goals. “These documents confirm that Penny Sharpe intervened to keep Eraring open, prioritizing coal-fired energy at the expense of developing renewable projects,” Higginson said. She emphasized that this decision contradicts the NSW Government’s public commitments to reduce carbon emissions, casting doubt on the state’s ability to meet its 50% reduction target by 2030.
Financial and Environmental Costs
Higginson also highlighted the financial implications, stating that the decision has cost the state $450 million and has jeopardized the progress of the renewable energy pipeline. She described the move as a “gift to the coal industry” and criticized the government for what she sees as a lack of concrete actions to address climate change, despite opportunities to collaborate with other political factions on stronger climate policies.
Implications for Climate Policy
The controversy surrounding the extension of Eraring’s operation is being viewed as a significant setback for NSW’s climate readiness. Higginson pointed out that this decision, alongside other policies like the continuation of native forest logging, indicates a broader failure of the Minns Labor Government to implement meaningful climate action.
“This $450 million gift to the coal industry is not the only betrayal by this Government on climate, but it does seem to be the most secretive and it’s extremely problematic,” Higginson remarked, expressing deep disappointment in the government’s approach to climate policy.
The decision to keep Eraring open raises concerns about NSW’s commitment to its climate targets and the potential long-term impacts on both the environment and the state’s energy landscape.
Source: miragenews.com
