Alinta Energy has proposed distributing electricity from the Eraring coal power station if the NSW government can extend its life.

Rather than seeking ownership or operation of the colossal power generator, currently the largest in the country, Alinta Energy has expressed its keen interest in retailing the power produced by the Eraring station in the event of government acquisition or underwriting for the station's continued operation.

Reports say Alinta believes Australia’s transition to lower carbon energy sources might take longer than initially anticipated, necessitating an extended run for the coal power station.

Origin Energy, currently the subject of an $18.7 billion takeover bid from North American entities, has planned the closure of the Eraring plant for August 2025. 

However, the NSW government has been advised that it might need to extend this operational timeline due to delays in replacement energy supply projects.

The NSW government is anticipated to unveil its strategy for the Eraring generator, with a capacity of 2880 megawatts, in coming weeks.