Coal or renewables: Which is cheaper?

As you unplug your iPhone and turn on your kettle each morning, the complexities of Australia's energy market probably aren’t high on your mind. But at this year’s federal election more than any other, voters are being asked to think about where their electricity comes from, how much it costs and whether it will help make the planet too hot to live on.

A coal operation in the NSW Hunter Valley. Tony
Abbott says coal is the cheapest form of energy.

The Morrison government has pledged to make energy supplies more reliable and affordable by financing new generation projects – most controversially coal – using the taxpayer purse. It’s an issue that is, again, tearing the Coalition apart as some Nationals MPs push for a firm funding commitment before the election.

Read the story from The Age by Nicole Hasham - “Coal or renewables: Which is cheaper?”

The Finkel review explained: what's in it, and why you should care

Alan Finkel, Australia's chief scientist, is due to release his review of Australia's energy market on Friday afternoon. The review has the potential to dramatically shake up the future energy supply of this country. So what do you need to know about it?

Stephanie Peatling.

First, what is the Finkel review?

The Finkel review is the shorthand name for a review of the national electricity market, commissioned by federal and state energy ministers last year.

It was prompted - in part - by the blackouts in South Australia, which focused national attention on energy security.

The review will provide governments with a blueprint for energy security across the grid. It will also look at affordability and sustainability, as more renewable energy flows into the electricity system, and coal-fired power stations close.

Read the piece by Stephanie Peatling in today’s Melbourne Age - “The Finkel review explained: what's in it, and why you should care.”