Last Update: Monday, February 26, 2007. 9:04am (AEDT) The power...

Last Update: Monday, February 26, 2007. 9:04am (AEDT)

The power industry is seeking clarity about emissions policy.

Power industry calls for national carbon trading
Australia's power industry wants the Federal Government to bring in a national carbon emissions trading scheme.

The Energy Supply Association (ESA) says uncertainty about emissions policy could damage the economy more than a cost on carbon would.

A Prime Ministerial task group is currently considering a carbon trading scheme but the Government says it wants to be part of a global system.

ESA chief executive Brad Page says Australia should start its own scheme to provide certainty to industry.

"There are big investments to be made in the electricity and gas sectors over the next decade," he said.

"We need a lot more clarity around greenhouse gas emission policy and to make rational investment decisions we need to be able to price greenhouse gas emissions and preferably trade them so we get least cost abatement."

Mr Page says any cost on carbon introduced locally must be low so it does not damage industry.

"We're not calling for an unfettered scheme where prices could rise uncontrollably," he said.

"We need to make sure we get Australia on the right path towards dealing with greenhouse gas emissions but in a way that recognises you shouldn't damage the economy while others aren't also pricing these emissions."

http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200702/s1856598.htm