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Early winter freeze, wind drought challenge climate targets

Ben Potter
Ben PotterSenior writer

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A surge in coal generation during eastern Australia’s early winter freeze has narrowed the pathway for the Albanese government to hit its 2030 emissions reduction targets, raising the stakes in a likely fierce energy debate ahead of the next election.

Coal and gas generation spiked in the June quarter after years of steady declines because electricity demand increased thanks to unusually cold early winter weather, while wind and hydro generation plunged thanks to windless, dry conditions.

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Ben Potter writes on energy, climate change and innovation, and has been Washington correspondent, opinion editor and companies editor. Connect with Ben on Twitter. Email Ben at bpotter@afr.com

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    Original URL: https://www.afr.com/policy/energy-and-climate/early-winter-freeze-wind-drought-challenge-climate-targets-20240806-p5jzx6