We conduct public interest financial analysis on the most profound economic transformation since the industrial revolution: the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy.

Snowy Hydro and the Clean Energy Finance Corporation will seek partly-developed wind and solar battery hybrid projects to meet a newly-inked 10-year arrangement to supply Tomago aluminium smelter with renewable energy from 2033 onwards. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese today confirmed that the $2.5 billion rescue deal, split 50:50 between the federal and New South Wales government, would underwrite 3GW of renewable generation and firming capacity, and that a statewide search would identify projects languishing between development approval and final investment decision. Read more

Tim’s interview starts at 2:03:47 Tim Buckley discussed the $2.5 billion state and federal government support package to secure Tomago Aluminium’s future and transition the smelter from subsidised coal power to firmed renewables. Tomago consumes around 12% of NSW electricity and supports 1,000 direct and thousands of indirect jobs. Buckley said the agreement could unlock renewable investment through long-term demand certainty. Power will combine wind, solar, batteries, demand response and limited gas peaking, helping maintain grid reliability while supporting globally competitive, lower-emissions aluminium production. Read more

Tim’s interview starts at 14:30 Tim Buckley, Director of Climate Energy Finance, compared challenges facing Tomago in NSW and Rio Tinto’s Bell Bay smelter in Tasmania, arguing governments cannot continue relying on repeated taxpayer-funded industry bailouts. He noted almost $10 billion in government support across Australian industrial facilities over two years. While recognising the strategic importance of aluminium and associated jobs, Buckley called for long-term solutions, highlighting competitive pressure from subsidised Chinese refining capacity and the need for greater renewable energy supply to reduce electricity costs. Read more