Coal is “here to stay”. That’s the message from the NSW Government following a major policy announcement this morning.

Legislation is being prepared to prolong the life of the state’s coal-fired power stations and support new mines.

This would address coal supply issues at the Mt Piper plant near Lithgow, which produces about 15 per cent of the state’s electricity.

Energy Minister Matt Kean tells Ray Hadley his priority is securing supply.

“Coal is absolutely here to stay, for decades to come, in New South Wales.

“All my policy decisions will be driven by two objectives; keeping the lights on and driving power prices down.

“That’s exactly what we’re going to do.”

But the Minister insisted the government won’t building new power supply sources itself, whether that’s coal, renewables or otherwise.

“With regard to building new generation in NSW, we’re not going to pick a winner.

“There are plenty of opportunities for the market to decide these things.”

Click PLAY below to hear the full interview

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