Fortescue Future Industries director and former Reserve Bank deputy Guy Debelle warned that the lagging response in the supply of clean energy poses a risk for prices over the next 10 years as the economy transitions to low-carbon energy.

Dr Debelle’s declaration was underlined by the prospect of a phased shutdown of Origin Energy’s giant Eraring coal power generator, floated on Tuesday, that would temporarily keep some units operating past 2025. The option has come onto the agenda to help ensure the lights stay on and avoid price spikes, and was outlined by federal Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen.