Producing energy from harvested trees and other plants – bioenergy – might sound like a greener option, but it’s not a simple issue.
South Africa’s coal fired power stations are breaching minimum emissions standards but shutting them down may jeopardise energy supply.
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South Africa’s national electricity plan is being finalised. A scientist argues that an energy mix of nuclear, clean coal, renewable energy and gas is urgently needed to end 15 years of power cuts.
The closure of Australia’s coal-fired power stations will be challenging. The car industry experience provides lessons on how to protect workers and families.
Yadlamalka Energy’s solar farm at Neuroodla, South Australia.
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The Australian Labor government’s expanded Capacity Investment Scheme gives us a better chance of hitting high renewable energy targets. It’s not without risk but well worth the rewards.
Workers hats on fence outside Victoria’s closed Hazelwood power station, March 2017.
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The good news is the world’s coal use has peaked – and will soon rapidly decline. Australia is leading the way, and the rest of the world must soon follow.
Paying coal-fired power stations to stay open means consumers will be picking up the cost when they ultimately fail.
A farmer works with his tractor in front of the Kusile Power Station located in eMalahleni. In Gauteng province residents can sometimes smell the pollution coming from this direction.
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Grattan Institute analysis shows it’s possible to achieve a vastly lower-emissions electricity system in less than two decades – if governments can muster the courage.
Stabilising Earth’s climate depends on a lot more than deals struck at conferences like Glasgow. But those agreements set a frame for real-world decisions.
If South Africa wants to improve air quality and meet climate change goals, it needs to move away from coal.
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To improve air quality, a combination of efforts is needed including reducing Eskom’s emissions, investing in cleaner sources of energy, and reducing emissions.