If politicians want a Clean Energy Target that delivers more than a 28% cut in electricity industry carbon emissions they should first check that it won't affect energy security and reliability, according to Finkel Panel member Chloe Munro.
The Queensland government says it will regulate carbon emissions through the Environmental Protection Act if an effective national strategy isn't in place by 2020.
Professor Ross Garnaut and the Grattan Institute's Tony Wood both favour adjusting the Clean Energy Target so it rewards the cleanest form of coal-fired generation.
The size of the target, timing, review mechanisms, state programs and large energy user competitiveness will be top concerns if the Turnbull government tries to implement a Low Emissions Target, according to business groups.
In a Senate inquiry report released today, government senators warn of the health effects of wind turbines and say the 'great tragedy' of the RET is that it could be increasing carbon emissions.
Australia should aim for a net-zero emissions economy that continues to attract energy-intensive industries, and the government shouldn't rule out carbon pricing, according to the Australian Industry Group.