New study warns that Greens’ energy proposal could trigger blackouts and economic disruption

A new study suggests that the Australian Greens’ energy proposal would trigger “major economic disruption” on both coasts of Australia.

The independent report by research firm EnergyQuest concluded that blackouts loom for millions of homes and businesses in south-eastern Australia in as little as two years if the Greens’ policy to ban new gas investment is enacted.

Cancelled contracts

“Along the east coast of Australia, it would lead to manufacturers closing and long-term Queensland export contracts being cancelled,” the study stated.

“Gas for electricity generation would be interrupted within two years, risking blackouts and soaring emissions as coal and diesel replace gas.”

The report also suggested that Western Australia would run out of gas for electricity – which accounts for 60% of the state’s power – from the early 2030s and its mining and industrial sectors would be left without gas from the mid-2030s.

‘Lights out’

Australian Energy Producers chief executive Samantha McCulloch said the Greens’ policy would mean lights out for Australia and significantly impact Australia’s ability to reach net zero.

“The Future Gas Strategy is clear [in its belief] that the Australian economy will need gas to 2050 and beyond and investment in new gas supply is urgently needed to meet demand,” she said.

“The Australian Energy Market Operator has warned the east coast will need more gas for electricity, while the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has called for the lifting of exploration bans and fast-tracking of approvals.”

“Instead, the Greens’ policy would undermine energy security, drive up energy prices and extend the reliance on coal – both in Australia and for our key trading partners – ultimately increasing emissions and slowing the energy transformation.”

No credible plan

According to Ms McCulloch, the findings of the report confirm the Greens don’t have a credible plan for Australia’s future.

“Their three-word slogan is not an energy policy, but a recipe for destroying Australia’s economy and energy security,” she said.

“Australia’s gas industry is a major economic driver—investing hundreds of billions of dollars in recent decades, creating thousands of jobs, delivering up to $17 billion annually to governments and spending $40b with businesses in Australia each year.”

“Australians deserve to know what a vote for the Greens really means for jobs and their energy bills.”