Greens Energy Plan Would ‘Devastate the Economy,’ New Report Says

A study by consultancy firm EnergyQuest predicts that following the Greens’ renewable energy policy would lead to “blackouts … for millions of homes and businesses in southeastern Australia in as little as two years,” adding that halting investment in gas supply would also “devastate the economy.” The report was commissioned by Australian Energy Producers, the peak body for Australia’s oil and gas industry. The Greens have said they want an immediate ban on the construction of new coal, oil, and gas infrastructure, arguing it will help transition the economy to zero-carbon energy while maintaining a safe climate. They say that by investing in wind power, solar energy, and energy storage and rewiring Australia’s electricity grid, the economy can be re-powered without new gas investment....