Energy
Economics & Deregulation / Energy
Energy is a vital area of the Australian economy, but it is constantly threatened by regulation and taxation. The Institute of Public Affairs examines the regulatory framework governing the energy sector and shows how deregulation can ensure that firms are given every opportunity to operate efficiently and that consumers receive the full benefits of a deregulated energy market. Environmental policies are also likely to challenge the vitality of this important sector.
The IPA also runs the Energy Forum, which brings together firms in the electricity and gas supply industry, all of which share a common view that privatisation and minimal levels of regulation will best serve the community. It provides a platform on which major industry leaders can test their views and subject them to informed criticism. Energy Forum papers are available here. For more information about the Energy Forum, please contact Alan Moran.
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News
We emit less CO2 than Combet gives us credit for
On April 13, Climate Change Minister Greg Combet's spin for a carbon tax pushed new frontiers in the art of being economical with the truth. He...
Taxpayers bear the cost of dumping coal
The Commonwealth's carbon tax hits all Australians by increasing the costs of goods and services. The Treasury forecasts this cost at $863 a year...
Totting up carbon tax is anything but a piece of cake
When asked on ABC1's Q & A about the carbon tax we'll pay on a birthday cake Assistant Treasurer Bill Shorten joked he didn't know how many...
Carbon illusion we can't afford
In implementing its carbon tax the Gillard government is involved in a massive campaign of misinformation. First there is the fiscal illusion. It...
Boot-strapping on a carbon tax
Australia accounts for a trivial share of global emissions. Abatement action can only be meaningful if it is part of an international movement. But...
Do you know what I want, what I really, really want?
The annual report of the Victorian Competition and Efficiency Commission demonstrates the regulatory burden imposed by the State Government...
Climate change can't be stopped, but we will adapt
Julia Gillard is half-right. The world is acting on climate change. But not acting to stop it - to adapt to it. In the 1920s, an average of 240...
The costs of climate of confusion
A reason for voter disquiet about Prime Minister Julia Gillard's carbon tax announcement is there are so many unanswered questions about how the...
Energy price increases: hiding behind treasury's Pollyanna forecasts
Lane Crockett of wind farm builder Pacific Hydro accuses "groups such as the IPA" of blaming "a soft target like (the Renewable Energy Target) RET...
Meeting CO2 targets via carbon price will hurt
It's astonishing that Ross Garnaut takes himself so seriously in the face of collapsing support in Australia and elsewhere for a carbon tax and...