AGL signals faster coal retreat if market forces accelerate green transition. I speak with AGL chief financial officer Damien Hicks.

Energy giant AGL has signalled it could accelerate the closure of its ageing coal-fired power plants if the takeup of renewables takes hold earlier than expected. 

The signal comes as activist investors demand faster action on the transition to green energy.

But the decision has angered the Federal Government with energy minister Angus Taylor warning early closures could create a "considerable gap" in power generation. 

ABC's Peter Ryan speaks with AGL chief financial officer Damien Nicks who says a faster switch from coal fire energy is possible.