December 20th 2024.
Recently, a video has surfaced featuring well-known Nationals senator Matt Canavan making comments about nuclear power not being the most cost-effective form of energy. This comes just a week after Opposition Leader Peter Dutton released long-awaited costings that claimed implementing nuclear power would actually save taxpayers money.
The video, first brought to light by ABC, shows Canavan expressing his criticism of nuclear power during a podcast appearance with the National Conservative Institute back in August. He stated, "Nuclear is not the answer. We, as a country, are not taking this seriously enough." It seems that Canavan is not convinced that nuclear power is the solution to our energy needs.
He went on to say, "I do support lifting the ban on nuclear power and we have a bill in the Senate to do just that. Building nuclear power stations could certainly benefit our energy system. However, we are using it as a quick fix, a cure-all, simply because it fits our political agenda. We are drawn to it because it is low-emission and reliable. But let's not forget, it is not the cheapest option out there."
Following the release of this video, Energy Minister Chris Bowen responded by saying, "I may not agree with Matt Canavan on many things, but he is right about this." He also added, "We have always known that their expensive nuclear plan was a sham. Now, one of them has finally admitted it."
Earlier this month, Dutton announced the long-awaited costings for his $331 billion plan to build seven nuclear plants across Australia. He claimed that this plan would be $263 billion cheaper than Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's renewable energy plan and would also lead to a reduction in power bills, although he did not specify by how much. Dutton stated, "This will provide a reliable and consistent source of electricity at a lower cost for all Australians, while also helping us to reduce our carbon emissions as a trading nation, which is crucial."
However, experts have questioned the economic feasibility of nuclear power. The CSIRO has previously found that it does not offer any significant cost advantage over other forms of energy. According to the CSIRO's chief energy economist Paul Graham, "Similar cost savings can be achieved with shorter-lived technologies, such as renewables, even when accounting for the need to replace them more frequently. The lack of economic advantage is due to the high costs associated with maintaining nuclear power plants for a longer period of time."
The federal government has also raised concerns about the viability of Dutton's nuclear plan. Albanese stated, "This will ultimately be funded by taxpayers because no private sector investor will want to be a part of this." It seems that there are still many doubts surrounding the feasibility of nuclear power in Australia.
For the latest news, sports updates, political developments, and weather forecasts, make sure to download the 9NEWS app. Stay informed and receive notifications straight to your phone. The app is available for download on both the Apple App Store and Google Play.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
