The Andrews Labor Government has today extended the mine licences of the Latrobe Valley’s major power plants to ensure at least 17 years of rehabilitation, giving certainty to local communities and mine workers.

Minister for Resources Tim Pallas announced today that the Labor Government will extend Energy Australia’s licence for the Yallourn mine to 2051, and the AGL licence for the Loy Yang mine to 2065.

This extension does not allow for the mining of coal beyond the 2032 and 2048 deadlines already in place by the respective companies.

Instead it allows extra time for responsible site rehabilitation and is consistent with the Labor Government’s target of net zero emissions by 2050.

The mine extension is in line with the approved work plans and expected closure dates for the mines, which together currently provide more than 70 per cent of Victoria’s power generation. It delivers energy security for Victorians and an orderly transition to low emission energy.

Under the extension, Energy Australia and AGL have committed to:

• providing a minimum 5-year notification of the closure of their power stations, giving certainty for our energy security
• continuing to invest in mine rehabilitation and their power stations to ensure safe and reliable power
• delivering on the objectives of the Latrobe Valley Worker Transfer Scheme and supporting the workforce to transition to new opportunities prior to and following any closure of the power stations

The Labor Government appointed Emeritus Professor Rae Mackay as the first Latrobe Valley Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner, and provided $5 million in the Victorian Budget 2018/19 to support his vital work advising the government on the safe, stable and sustainable rehabilitation of mining sites in the Valley.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Resources Tim Pallas

“These extensions support our energy security and provide certainty for workers and communities across Victoria.”

“The 5-year notice period is longer than what the Commonwealth has sought through the Finkel Review and gives local workers and their families confidence to plan for the future.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio

“A 5-year notification period in advance of closing these coal fired generators is critical to the pipeline of new renewable power generation and an orderly transition to low emission energy.”

“A clear timeline for the end of brown coal generation in Victoria is essential in achieving our renewable energy targets of 40 per cent by 2025 and net-zero emissions by 2050.”

Quote attributable to the Latrobe Valley Mine Rehabilitation Commissioner Professor Rae Mackay

“Having adequate timeframes for mine rehabilitation, a minimum of 17 years for Loy Yang and Yallourn, will help planning and consultation with the local community regarding the future of these sites.”