Progress in the development of renewable energy generation continues to be influenced by the politics of emissions trading and carbon tax, and the desire for more renewable sources of viable power generation.
Whilst the vibrant debate around transitional arrangements for carbon intensive participants (including coal-powered generators) will continue, as carbon intensity is increasingly reflected in the price of energy (in particular energy generated by coal fired power stations), the price competitiveness of renewable energy will increase. Whilst Europe continues at pace to develop further renewable power generation, Australia, with its abundant supplies of thermal coal, understandably, is unlikely to match Europe in the near term.
Paradoxically, it may be that the very abundance of thermal coal will provide the impetus that Australia needs to move towards the levels of renewable energy generation seen in Europe as export price parity for thermal coal drives up the price of coal, and as such, electricity and carbon is priced through the carbon tax.
Corrs has long standing and significant expertise in coal, gas and renewable power station developments and operation. In addition to development and operational expertise, Corrs’ team advises on the commercial impact of Renewable Energy Certificates (RECS) and electricity trading, and the regulatory environment.