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Australia’s Renewable Energy Debate: From Climate Wars to Nuclear Power

The Australian Coalition's nuclear power plan faces criticism for potentially raising emissions and electricity costs, contradicting the global shift to renewables.
The Coalition’s nuclear power plan offers the worst of all energy worlds: higher emissions and higher electricity costs | Malcolm Turnbull

During the early years of the climate wars, it was argued that coal-fired generation was more economical and that global warming was a hoax. However, those seriously considering global warming maintained that the extra cost of renewable energy was a necessary expenditure for the planet’s preservation.

Presently, it’s widely acknowledged that the most cost-effective mode of new energy generation is solar and wind power. This shift is not lost on the energy sector, which shows no interest in constructing new coal-fired power plants. In fact, Australia boasts the highest rate of rooftop solar PV globally.

Contrarily, nuclear energy remains the most expensive form of new generation. The recent nuclear power announcement by Peter Dutton, which promises to obstruct the renewables rollout and increase electricity costs, is being viewed as detrimental. It risks both higher emissions and increased electricity costs.

Australia’s Renewable Resources

Australia is blessed with an abundance of sunshine, wind, and land, suitable for renewable generation. This is a significant competitive advantage for the country. The challenge lies in storing excess electricity generated when supply exceeds demand, for instance, during periods of high solar or wind activity. Currently, batteries and pumped hydro are being utilised for short and long-term storage, respectively.

Companies like Upper Hunter Hydro are developing two pumped hydro projects that can store electricity equivalent to a large coal-fired plant. There are also several other similar projects underway across Australia.

Nuclear Power and Renewables

Contrary to Dutton’s assertion that nuclear power is needed to support renewables, the inflexible nature of nuclear power generation makes it incompatible with renewable energy. Nuclear power plants operate at a constant level throughout the day and cannot be turned off when there is a glut of solar or wind power. Instead, flexible, despatchable power sources like batteries and pumped hydro are better suited to support renewables.

Nuclear power plants face economic challenges as they are unable to compete with solar and wind power for a significant part of the day. As a result, they contribute to excess supply, which is then absorbed by batteries and pumped hydro, further increasing competition for the nuclear plant during the night.

The Coalition’s Plan

The Coalition’s strategy appears to involve intervening in the energy market, constraining the rollout of cost-effective solar and wind energy while investing taxpayer’s money in the expensive nuclear energy. This move, in response to a cost-of-living crisis, could possibly lead to higher electricity prices and a delay in renewable energy rollout. The second round of Australian climate wars could prove to be an expensive and dangerous farce.

Malcolm Turnbull is a former prime minister of Australia.

Original Story at www.theguardian.com

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024