NSW Approves Coal Mine Extension, Blurring Climate Goals

0:00In New South Wales, the Independent Planning Commission just approved a two-year extension for Delta Electricity's Chain Valley underground coal mine. In the Lake McCory area, the catch is, all the coal dug-up has to go straight to the Vale's Point Power Station. No exports, no other sales. They say it's crucial for keeping a light on with reliable base-low power, while the state shifts to renewables. This marched the first coal mine call like this since the government locked in net zero emissions by 2050, plus cuts of 50 percent by 20, 30 and 70 percent by 2035. Last year, the state's own net zero commission flagged that any mine extensions could derail those goals, but the commission argued the project wraps by December 31st, 2029, so it dodges the 2030 targets. Green's climate spokesperson Sue Higginson is calling it a risky move, saying the state is already blowing past its 2030 reductions, and this. Could get shot down in court. Lock the gate alliance sees a win, though, hailing the export ban as a big precedent that might

1:03hit future projects hard. Delta Electricity is all in, praising the nod for saving hundreds of local mining jobs, and shielding against global coal price swings. They promise emissions cuts during extraction, and say it fits right into the decarbonization plan for steady energy. As more massive expansions like Hunter Valley operations loomed this year, this decision spotlights the tightrope walk between power needs and climate. Promise's eyes wide open for what's next in the coal fade out. You've been listening to Sydney News today, AI-powered local news.