Energy stalemate deepens as governments dig in over climate action

Hopes of a swift end to Australia’s climate policy paralysis have been dashed after the Turnbull government refused to capitulate to the states’ appeal for compromise on the landmark energy plan, including their demand that accelerated emissions reductions be made easier.

The Commonwealth and states appear unlikely to
strike a deal on energy policy this week.

Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg has accused the states of "posturing" and says the government has sought to address their concerns.

Political tensions are high in the days ahead of a highly anticipated meeting of energy ministers in Sydney on Friday where the fate of the National Energy Guarantee will be decided.

Read the story from today’s Age by Nicole Hasham and Peter Hannam - “Energy stalemate deepens as governments dig in over climate action.”

Australia’s biggest mining states, ACT raise issues about energy plan

The Turnbull government’s hopes of securing an early ‘‘green light’’ to its landmark energy plan have received fresh setbacks, with Queensland, Western Australia and the ACT each declaring serious concerns about its design.

The federal government is seeking state and territory
support this Friday for its national energy guarantee.

The states object to the federal government’s proposed carbon emissions cuts and renewables targets, but energy minister Josh Frydenberg is confident his plan will progress past this Friday’s key meeting with state counterparts.

In their first responses to detailed papers on the National Energy Guarantee – a plan that aims to lower power prices, improve the grid’s reliability, and cut greenhouse emissions from the electricity sector – Queensland and Western Australia said key issues remain.

Read the story by Peter Hannam and Nicole Hasham from The Age - “Australia’s biggest mining states, ACT raise issues about energy plan.”