Former Prime Minister Tony Abbott insists new coal is still “much cheaper” than renewable energy.

Mr Abbott is part of a group of backbenchers demanding the construction of a new coal-fired power station.

But Treasurer Scott Morrison has rejected the idea, arguing the electricity would be far more expensive than what’s being produced by existing plants.

The former PM tells Ben Fordham it needs to be put into context.

“It’s true that new coal stations are more expensive to buy power from than old coal stations, because the old coal stations have been depreciated.

“But even new coal is still quite a bit cheaper than new gas, and it’s much much cheaper and much, much more reliable than wind and solar because it’s available all the time in the way that wind and solar are not.

“If we want to continue to enjoy the most affordable and reliable baseload power, we’ve got to keep our existing coal-fired power plants goings.

“And we are going to have to replace them.”

Listen to the full interview below

Mr Abbott also comments on the upcoming 2018 Pollie Pedal.

Having raised close to $5 million over 21 years, the former PM has completed all 21 rides.

“It’s a great way to ensure politicians get out of the white cars, the suits and the offices and see parts of Australia that are a bit off the beaten track.

For more information on the Pollie Pedal, click here.