Misinformation can spread like wildfire, and it's crucial to set the record straight! This statement clarifies a recent instance where IEEFA's analysis was cited in media coverage, but the attribution was not entirely accurate. Let's dive into the details.
On December 9, 2025, IEEFA (Australia) released this statement regarding the analysis referenced in recent media reports. Specifically, the issue revolves around an article published on October 30, 2025, in several Australian newspapers, titled "ETU reveals massive gap in Qld coal power maintenance budget." The article highlighted comments made by Peter Ong, the QLD/NT State Secretary of the Electrical Trades Union (ETU), during a Queensland parliamentary hearing.
Mr. Ong was reported to have cited IEEFA's analysis concerning the maintenance costs for coal generators in Queensland. However, the figures presented were actually the result of the ETU's own analysis. This analysis was detailed in the ETU's submission to the QLD Governance, Energy and Finance Committee for the Energy Roadmap Amendment Bill 2025. You can find the submission here: (https://documents.parliament.qld.gov.au/com/GEFC-11EE/ERAB2025-60E3/submissions/00000001.pdf). The ETU's analysis did, however, draw upon IEEFA's historical data on coal generator refurbishment costs, which were presented in our April 2025 report, "Delaying coal power exits: A risk we can’t afford." You can access this report here: (https://ieefa.org/sites/default/files/2025-04/Delaying%20coal%20power%20exits-Apr25.pdf).
So, what does this mean? It underscores the importance of accurate sourcing and attribution in reporting. While IEEFA's research informed the ETU's analysis, the specific figures and conclusions were those of the ETU. This is a critical distinction.
About IEEFA: The Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) is dedicated to examining energy markets, trends, and policies. Their mission is to accelerate the shift towards a diverse, sustainable, and profitable energy economy. They provide valuable insights into the financial and economic realities of the energy sector.
What are your thoughts? Do you think accurate attribution is always a priority in reporting? Do you think the distinction between IEEFA's data and the ETU's analysis is significant? Share your opinions in the comments below!
