Expansion of Loy Yang B power station angers green groups

The Loy Yang B power station will be expanded.

A major generator of Victoria's coal-fired electricity is set to be expanded, sparking protests from environment groups over the effect on carbon emissions.

The planned upgrade of the Loy Yang B power station in the Latrobe Valley comes as its majority owner, Engie, prepares to shut down the Hazelwood plant and coal mine in March.

The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has granted "works approval" to upgrade turbines at the plant, which will result in the burning of an extra 400,000 tonnes of coal each year.

Loy Yang B provides about 17 per cent of Victoria's energy needs.

Read the story by Benjamin Preiss in today’s Melbourne Age - “Expansion of Loy Yang B power station angers green groups.”