The recent carbon tax has driven a sharp fall in emissions as coal-fired stations have closed and announced production cuts. The Age reports that Electricity sold in the East coast of Australia since the bills introduction has on average been 7.6 percent less carbon dioxide for each megawatt hour.
Compared to the same quarter last year, emissions were down 6.3%, which experts attribute to less demand for electricity due to renewable such as solar and wind power. Reduced demand has led to the closing of one of Victoria’s biggest generators, and Ergon Energy and EnergyAustralia’s Yallourn power station is facing 10% less demand compared to several years ago. Such demand drops have been attributed to market adjustments like the switch from electric to solar hot water heating.
