A report into future energy sources in Australia has found that extreme positions on the coal seam gas debate threaten to reduce its potential economic and social benefits.

The Committee for Economic Development produced the report which also said that industry and state governments have done a very poor job of consulting with farmers and communities about CSG development.

Mr Stephen Martin chief executive Professor of CEDA said that both should adopt OECD best practice with the Federal Government working more closely with states and territories.

Professor Martin said that proposed moratorium on CSG activity in Victoria and an overwhelming rejection of it at this weekend's local elections in Lismore in northern NSW, are being driven by unfounded fears and hysteria.

He said that the critical issue of Australia's energy supply in the next 50 years needs balanced discussions and all options should be studied including renewables, nuclear and coal seam gas

He added that there are extremes in both circumstances where you have some environmental lobby groups and others that are advocating an absolute no to any form of energy consideration outside renewables. And that in effect is putting their heads in the sand.

Source - ABC.com

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