Options for new Capacity in Australian Elctricity Generation
Options for providing additional capacity in electricity generation are explored in the light of published research by May and Brennan on sustainability of Australian electricity generation.
On the basis of lowest CO2 and other emissions per MWh, combined cycle gas turbine generation from natural gas offers the best short-term option for new capacity. Gas fields with access to sea water cooling would reduce fresh water consumption. Demands on gas for liquefied exports, chemical feedstock and industrial fuel will tend to escalate gas prices, driving improved gas recovery and conservation, but increasing electricity prices.
Opportunities in existing industries or new power stations for cogeneration should be pursued but demand effective industrial planning.
CO2 sequestration from flue gas would further consume energy and deplete fuel resources, and increase capital and operating costs to separate, compress and store CO2.
Cleaner coal technologies such as integrated gasification combined cycle and coal drying should be pursued. However these are not yet ready for commercial implementation and further development will be costly.
Potential reductions in CO2 emissions from nuclear energy must be weighed against high capital costs and risks of accidents, diversion of enriched uranium to weaponry or terrorism, and ineffective waste disposal. This technology should not be adopted without the Australian community first being engaged in a consultative process.
Strong efforts should be made to reduce demand for energy by conservation at industrial, commercial and domestic levels and by community education regarding lifestyle choices of goods consumption, living space, and heating and air conditioning.