Renewable energy taxation in the energy transition: how to replace coal and gas royalties in Australian State Budgets
Jonathan Fulcher A and Erin O’Shaughnessy A *A
Jonathan Fulcher is a consultant at HopgoodGanim Lawyers. J.fulcher@hopgoodganim.com.au |
Erin O’Shaughnessy is a solicitor at HopgoodGanim Lawyers. e.oshaughnessy@hopgoodganim.com.au |
Abstract
This extended abstract seeks to answer the question as to how state Budgets in Australia can replace coal and gas royalties as we transition to different forms of energy. It sets out the magnitude of the budget hole which needs to be filled. Then, it suggests overseas examples and options that might be available from which we might learn how to tax renewable energy in a sustainable and replaceable way. Lastly, it argues that there is no easy solution to this tax dilemma and states may need to concentrate on the ‘net’ in Net Zero for longer than seems prudent, if the current global warming trends continue. If the United States steers back towards gas production and generates significant volumes of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for the global market, this will put even more pressure on Australian domestic gas supply and LNG production.
Keywords: climate change, coal, energy transition, fossil fuel royalties, gas, government budget shortfall, royalties, taxation policy design, taxing renewables.
Jonathan Fulcher is a consultant at HopgoodGanim Lawyers. J.fulcher@hopgoodganim.com.au |
Erin O’Shaughnessy is a solicitor at HopgoodGanim Lawyers. e.oshaughnessy@hopgoodganim.com.au |
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