Introduction

The Climate Institute welcomed the opportunity to contribute to the Senate inquiry into the retirement of coal fired power stations.

The transition from ageing, high-carbon coal generation to clean energy is a central concern not just for the Australian electricity system. Due to the essential nature of electricity services and the strategic role of decarbonised electricity in economy-wide emissions reduction, it is also critical to Australia’s long-term economic activity and societal well-being.

The Climate Institute’s submission focuses on the following questions:

• Why is a managed exit pathway for coal generators necessary?
• What are criteria for an appropriate exit pathway?
• What are the essential elements of an effective exit pathway?