The ABC’s Henry Belot reports (3.2.17) on the federal government’s announcement of a multi-billion dollar infrastructure fund to subsidise the construction of ‘clean coal’ power stations.
‘Resources Minister Matt Canavan has opened the $5 billion Northern Australia Infrastructure Fund to fund new so-called clean-coal power stations.
‘Senator Canavan’s comments come days after Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said Australian industry had an obligation to be at the forefront of coal technology.
‘Treasurer Scott Morrison has also not ruled out using money set aside in the Clean Energy Finance Corporation to pay for new generation power stations.
‘Mr Canavan said he had received interest from energy generators to tap into the billion-dollar investment fund and explore North Queensland.
‘… Mr Turnbull announced the push for more clean-coal technology earlier this week, which he vowed to make electricity prices and energy security a defining political debate of the year.
‘But energy experts have also warned power prices for consumers could double, not fall, if new coal power stations are built.’
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