The Minister for Resources and Energy Martin Ferguson has announced the formation of a National Low Emissions Coal Council and a Carbon Storage Taskforce to drive the adoption of low emissions coal technologies.
The Council and Taskforce will be backed by the Australian Government's $500 million commitment and more than $1 billion from industry and the states.
“The National Low Emissions Coal Council will bring together key stakeholders from government, industry, and the coal research community to provide guidance and advice on the development and implementation of the National Low Emissions Coal Initiative,” Minister Ferguson said.
“I am also pleased to announce that Dick Wells has agreed to Chair the Council. Wells brings a wealth of experience in the resources industry, having previously held the position of chief executive with the Minerals Council of Australia and the Australian Petroleum Production and Exploration Association. I will announce the full membership of the Council shortly.
“The Council will deliver a national approach to R&D and develop a national strategy aimed at accelerating the development and demonstration of low emission coal technologies.”
Ferguson also announced the National Carbon Mapping and Infrastructure Plan will be developed by a Carbon Storage Taskforce.
“The Taskforce will incorporate representatives from the coal, power generation, petroleum and pipeline sectors, expertise from Australia's geological community, and representatives from the workforce and ENGOs, with appointments to be announced shortly,” he said.
“The Taskforce will examine the work already underway in Australia and indicate priority issues going forward. It will make recommendations to the National Low Emissions Coal Council on a forward work program for geological mapping, infrastructure and storage locations.
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