Electricity prices are set to increase by up to 100 percent starting today, causing concern among consumers and businesses alike. The Gladstone coal-fired power station, which is Queensland’s largest, has been owned by the American NRG company since 1994. This change in ownership reflects a broader trend of the privatization of essential services in Queensland, including water, roads, rail, and rubbish management.
In the past, these services were owned and operated by governmental public utilities, which aimed to provide affordable and reliable services. However, in recent years, they have become lucrative sources of profit for corporations, often with close ties to the LNP and Labor parties. The Tinaroo Dam, for example, was privatized to benefit politicians and multinational companies, rather than farmers who rely on water for their livelihoods.
This shift towards privatization began in the 1960s, when the Liberal and Nationals parties initiated a wave of free trade and deregulation. As a result, valuable assets, such as coal and gas reserves, were sold to multinational companies. These companies now charge exorbitant prices for these resources, leading to increased electricity costs for consumers.
One example of this is the Gladstone power station, which used to receive second-grade coal for free from mining companies. The coal was transported to the power station by Queensland Rail, which was then a public utility. This arrangement allowed for cheap power for manufacturing industries and small businesses, fostering growth and job creation. However, the current operator of the bauxite refinery in Gladstone, Rio Tinto, is on the verge of shutting down due to the high cost of power supply.
There are also allegations of corruption and improper financial gain in these privatization efforts. Former Labor Premier Peter Beattie has been accused of benefiting financially from coal seam gas licenses awarded by the Labor Party. There were rumors that Beattie received millions of shares in return for these licenses. Similar allegations surround the privatization of Queensland Rail freight during the Bligh Labor Party’s tenure.
The consequences of these privatization efforts are felt by Queenslanders today. Electricity prices are soaring, making it difficult for households to afford basic necessities. Businesses, especially those in regional areas, are struggling under the weight of excessive overheads. Some farmers may even have to resort to diesel power generation to keep their operations running. All of this is happening in the context of a global push towards renewable energy, which is seen as a more sustainable alternative to coal and gas. However, the rapid transition to renewables, without proper planning and investment, has led to further increases in energy prices.
These trends can be attributed to the influence of the United Nations’ Agenda 21/30 depopulation plan, which the Queensland Labor Party signed in 1992. The plan aims to reduce the world’s population by promoting sustainable development and renewable energy. However, critics argue that this approach is causing unnecessary hardships and economic instability.
In conclusion, the privatization of essential services in Queensland has led to significant increases in electricity prices. Consumers and businesses are facing higher costs, while allegations of corruption and improper financial gain surround these privatization efforts. The transition to renewable energy is also exacerbating the situation, as the shift away from coal and gas leads to even higher energy prices. These developments highlight the need for a more balanced and sustainable approach to energy management in Queensland.
Source link
