Economists say action on climate is vital, or say nothing at all
Economists are divided on whether Australia must become a low-carbon intensity economy.
Senior Writer
Economists are divided on whether Australia must become a low-carbon intensity economy.
"Clean coal" plants that the Turnbull government has flagged could get clean energy subsidies are more expensive than solar, wind and gas-fired power and would lead to higher electricity price rises, analysts have warned.
State and federal energy ministers have agreed to steps promised to stop companies price gouging on electricity bills, but been blocked from going further by the NSW and Queensland governments.
The extreme weather conditions and 80,000 lightning strikes that thrust South Australia into darkness last week was extraordinary enough; the disingenuous debate it sparked about Australia's changing energy system has been something else again.
The Apple Isle is using a fleet of diesel gennies and cloud seeding to try and make it rain, but will this state run out of power?
Environment Minister Greg Hunt has hailed the first round of "direct action", saying it has delivered Australia's largest emissions cut ever. Is it a plan for the next 50 years? Or is the future a little more complicated?
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