Gov’t clean energy grants welcomed, calls to end coal support

The Australian Conservation Foundation’s national climate policy adviser, Annika Reynolds, has expressed both praise and criticism regarding the government’s latest initiatives.

“It’s great to see the federal government helping industrial and manufacturing facilities make the switch to more efficient and cost-effective clean processes, reducing reliance on outdated fossil fuels,” said Reynolds.

“A future made in Australia starts with switching the fuel sources for existing heavy industries and helping big power users like aluminium smelters use energy more efficiently.”

The new grants aim to support industrial centres like Gladstone, Kwinana, and Geelong, enabling energy-intensive sectors to remain competitive internationally while transitioning to clean energy.

“This sort of investment is vital for Gladstone, Kwinana, Geelong, and other industrial centres so energy-intensive sectors can remain internationally competitive and continue to provide jobs for workers while being part of the clean energy transition,” Reynolds stated.

The Australian Conservation Foundation welcomed the government’s commitment to reducing emissions from ammonia production and investing in renewable energy systems that displace gas from industrial processes.

“These are the kinds of opportunities that enable Australian industry to reduce its reliance on climate-damaging gas,” Reynolds added.

However, Reynolds expressed disappointment over the government’s decision to award a grant to the Kestrel underground coal mine in the Bowen Basin.

“While the $37 million grant will help the mine reduce ventilation methane emissions – a significant and under-reported source of climate pollution in Australia – ACF believes the public should not foot the bill on a technology upgrade for a mine that is seeking approval to extend its operations to 2050,” Reynolds said.

“There should be no further government handouts to fossil fuels; it’s time for the coal mining sector to get on with reducing its emissions,” Reynolds emphasised.

“We urge the federal government to keep investing in the clean industries that will power Australia’s future.”