On 16 January 2019, we suspended sales of coal ash from Bayswater and Liddell power stations as a precaution after a number of test results identified elevated levels of chromium and copper. These levels could exceed limits set by the EPA in the Coal Ash Order 2014.

Our highest priority is, and will continue to be, the health and safety of individuals and minimising impacts on the environment.

As part of AGL’s initial response to this matter, we engaged an external expert, Environmental Risk Sciences Pty Ltd (enRiskS) to carry out a comprehensive human health and ecological risk assessment, which included having regard to the purpose for which the coal ash is known to or may have been used.

AGL has today released a copy of the comprehensive human health and ecological risk assessment completed by enRiskS (enRiskS Report). Consistent with the initial advice provided by enRiskS, the enRiskS Report confirms that the use of coal ash for all known uses does not pose a risk to human health and is not considered to be of concern to the environment.

AGL acknowledges that this issue has highlighted a failure in our processes and we are working with the EPA to ensure we fully comply with all our obligations under the Coal Ash Order 2014.

The EnRiskS report can be viewed here.

About AGL

AGL is committed to helping shape a sustainable energy future for Australia. We operate the country’s largest electricity generation portfolio, we’re its largest ASX-listed investor in renewable energy, and we have 3.6 million customer accounts. Proudly Australian, with more than 180 years of experience, we have a responsibility to provide sustainable, secure and affordable energy for our customers. Our aim is to prosper in a carbon-constrained world and build customer advocacy as our industry transforms. That’s why we have committed to exiting our coal-fired generation by 2050 and why we will continue to develop innovative solutions for our customers.