New gas-fired electricity generation needed now to reduce emissions

New gas-fired electricity generation needed now to reduce emissions
Gas may be a dirty word for some, but it is needed to power turbines says a Mercury executive. (Image: Getty)
Ian Llewellyn
The electricity system needs to build new fast-fired gas electricity generation plant now, on a similar scale to the existing Huntly power station, to avoid blackouts and decarbonise, says Mercury’s generation portfolio manager, Phil Gibson.The seemingly counterintuitive proposal to create new greenhouse emissions to reduce them in the long run is based on fears that the current system relies on ageing coal and gas-fired plant – mainly Huntly – and does not have the margins for mishap that any sensible engineer requires.Gibson...

More Policy

EPA applies to liquidate company on fast-track list
Policy

EPA applies to liquidate company on fast-track list

Energy Farms did not pay costs relating to the application process.

WorkSafe could face big changes if reforms stall
Policy

WorkSafe could face big changes if reforms stall

Workplace safety minister announces big changes, but there could be more to come.

Dileepa Fonseka 03 Jun 2025
Govt announces 'farmer-focused' RMA reforms
Primary Sector

Govt announces 'farmer-focused' RMA reforms

Proposed reforms cover freshwater, farming practice, mining and quarrying.

Pattrick Smellie 29 May 2025
Govt shifting consent priorities towards development
Policy

Govt shifting consent priorities towards development

The Government said it was releasing three discussion documents on the changes.

Oliver Lewis 29 May 2025