Nationals MP David Gillespie says the proposal for more coal-fired power stations is “just common sense” and will aid Australia in reaching emissions targets.

Members of the Nationals backbench are unveiling a manufacturing blueprint with the goal of creating 800,000 jobs in the next 15 years and the construction of a new coal plant in New South Wales’ Hunter Valley.

“If you’re going to run a modern industrial economy, get manufacturing going again, you’re going to need to plan to have reliable energy,” Mr Gillespie told Sky News host Chris Kenny.

“What we’re saying is the obvious thing in Australia … we need to get modern, up to date, super-efficient low-emission technology to replace all these old 1960s and 70s power stations.”

The proposal could reignite climate tensions in the Coalition, given many speculate the Morrison government will commit to net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“It’s just common sense, and it will actually help us reach all those targets.”