Genesis says no deal, no Rankine unit

The energy sector is fast approaching a series of crucial decisions that will shape its direction for decades ahead.

The collapse of gas supply in recent years has left the country dealing with an energy shortage when the rain does not fall, the wind does not blow, the sun does not shine, and the coal piles get low.

This has raised questions about whether the current market system is fit for purpose.

Regulators are looking at changes to market settings.

Ministers are considering calls for more radical changes including whether the four major electricity companies should have their market power curtailed in some way, or even broken up entirely.

Many consider the status quo is the cause of the problems, but others warn major changes bring risks that could outweigh the benefits.

Elsewhere, decisions are being made about building new generation and finding ways to fuel it whether it be sun, wind, water, geothermal or even importing liquefied natural gas.

One of the pressure points is the Huntly Power Station.

Not that long ago, the more than 40 year old station was considered a white elephant belching greenhouse gases and ready for imminent closure as much detested Indonesian coal was driven out of the system

Now some see it as an essential insurance policy.

The question is – Who will pay the premium?

Read more on BusinessDesk here.