Australia's coal-fired power stations are scheduled to close over the next decade, but recent extensions like Origin Energy's Eraring plant have sparked a clash over how to ensure timely exits. Clean energy advocates want coal and gas generators included in the federal safeguard mechanism, which would force them to pay for emissions if they operate past their announced retirement dates. Utilities warn this could raise electricity prices without cutting emissions, but experts say it could help Australia meet its climate targets with modest household cost impacts. The outcome will shape grid reliability, renewable project finance, and the pace of the country's energy transition.
