I think the Finkel report is a very clever political document....

I think the Finkel report is a very clever political document. He clearly understands that a perceived future for coal is a pre-condition for acceptability to the Govt back bench climate change deniers. I really don't think it makes any difference - existing coal-fired power stations will continue until the end of their economic life (unless retired earlier because they are un-economic), during which period renewable energy generation will expand to fill the gap, along with associated storage to provide grid regulation and stability, and iron out the intermittency of wind and solar. As for new coal-fired power stations, it just isn't going to happen, and Dr Finkel knows that - renewable + batteries is cheaper (or will be soon) so no bank (except a conservative govt perhaps) will lend money to build a new coal-fired power station. The cost equation is even worse for Coal with CCS, negating any advantage a coal+CCS power station would have from qualifying for CET certificates.

Dr Finkel's plan may not be perfect, but it at least has a chance at success. I sincerely hope that the opposition and minor parties don't sink it for perceived short-term political advantage. The country deserves better than that.