NSW to work with Origin Energy to delay Eraring power station closure

The news: The NSW Government will hold talks with the owners of Eraring power station, Origin Energy, about extending its operation beyond 2025 due to concerns about future energy supply and reliability.

The numbers: Eraring is Australia's largest coal-fired power station, supplying around 25% of NSW's needs. Delaying the closure of the plant was one of 54 recommendations made in the "Electricity Supply and Reliability Check Up" report, authored by energy expert Cameron O'Reilly on the state's transition to renewables. The government has accepted 50 of the recommendations either in full or in part. Climate Energy Finance puts the cost of keeping Eraring open at between $200-$400 million annually, though the report does not address the cost to taxpayers.

The context: The Eraring power station is due to close in August 2025 as part of NSW's move away from fossil fuel energy sources. The state government has now agreed to discuss an extension of the plant's lifespan after O'Reilly's report revealed concerns that the existing power grid wouldn't be able to meet the state's electricity demand if the plant is closed at that time.