While there have been developments in alternative energy sources and cleaner coal, there will be an ongoing need for the resource in New Zealand and throughout the Asia Pacific region, he said.

“There is an ongoing role for coal and this can be exercised responsibly,” he said.

“Globally, the International Energy Agency reports that coal provides 40% of electricity-generation capacity and this is predicted by to drop to one-third by 2035.

“Many argue the world is moving away from fossil fuels and certainly, we are seeing the welcome development of new, lower-carbon and more efficient technologies.

“But to argue that the transition is happening now and that New Zealand should stop mining coal denies the facts.

“Fossil fuels, including coal, will not be disappearing any time soon; far from it.”

NZ west coast-based Taylor Coal has developed an additive to promote cleaner and more efficient burning of coal in boilers, as part of its customer focus.

Over the past few years CRL Energy and other research providers have been exploring co-generation of industrial heat energy using coal and biomass, to achieve the twin goals of cost-effectiveness and emissions reductions.

Green Party co-leader Dr Russel Norman pointed out IEA data showing that renewables were the fastest growing source of new electricity generation over the past 10 years.

“What he didn’t say was that fossil fuels provided 60% of new generation over that same period,” Baker said.

“With Japan having closed all 50 of its nuclear reactors after the Fukishima disaster, and with Europe broadly following a similar path, coal imports into these parts of the world are increasing. The UK is reopening coal mines.

“According to US energy expert Dr Scott Tinker, 600 million people in India are waiting to be connected to the national grid, and that the additional and very necessary energy supply will be produced with coal.

“For now, coal has a vital role to play as poorer countries improve their economic conditions. Try telling China, the world’s largest greenhouse gas emitter, to stop using coal.

“This is a simple reality, worldwide and in New Zealand, and will remain so until new and better technologies are available.

“With 22 operating coal mines around the country, New Zealand is well placed to supply to overseas and local markets.”