Title: Australian electricity supply: orientations to growth and prospects for sustainability

Authors: G. Smith

Addresses: School of Economics, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia

Abstract: In the new competitive order, Australian electricity systems have been oriented to growth of electricity sales based on low margins and the capture of market share. Electricity is a premium fuel. The second law of thermodynamics testifies to this, as does the relationship between coal-fired electricity and the negative externality of greenhouse warming. Electricity prices should reflect its status as a premium fuel. Ease of transition in such a regime would be fostered by the taking up of options for energy efficiency and renewable sources of supply.

Keywords: carbon pricing regime; electricity pricing; energy efficiency; growth orientation; electricity use intensification; long run marginal costs; negative externality; renewable energy; Australia; sustainability; sustainable development.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEWE.2007.015289

International Journal of Environment, Workplace and Employment, 2007 Vol.3 No.1, pp.28 - 36

Published online: 01 Oct 2007 *

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