Attendees of Solar Tech Conference Walk out on Energy Spokesman Speaking against Solar Power
Mr. O’Brien argued that renewables and battery storage technology are experimental and may not provide the necessary energy capacity, ultimately endangering the grid.
Opposition energy spokesman Ted O’Brien delivered a speech at a solar technology event in Brisbane where he expressed concerns that Australia’s shift towards renewable energy could result in the nation becoming “poor and weak,” facing potential blackouts.
Aiming to meet clean energy targets by 2030, the Australian government is transitioning away from coal-powered electricity towards wind, hydro, battery, and solar power initiatives.
However, O’Brien, following other speakers advocating for renewables and battery storage, contended that these technologies are unproven and may not meet the country’s energy requirements, posing a risk to the national grid.
He stated, “The days of an affordable, reliable, 24/7 power system will be gone.” Additionally, O’Brien emphasized the need for improved battery technology to address grid saturation caused by solar units.
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O’Brien also advocated for nuclear power, stating its necessity to prevent regular blackouts and brownouts.
He faced a heckler during his speech, leading to around 20 attendees walking out of the event.
Nuclear Advocacy
In a previous engagement in March, O’Brien, who led a 2019 parliamentary inquiry on nuclear energy, disagreed with a report by NSW Chief Scientist Hugh Durrant-Whyte that suggested a nuclear power plant could not be operational in less than two decades.
Emphasizing the need for zero-emissions nuclear energy for a credible path to net zero, O’Brien highlighted that experts worldwide believe Australia could have nuclear energy within a 10-year timeframe.
Despite criticism for visiting Hiroshima in Japan and filming videos on nuclear energy, O’Brien maintained transparency about his trip and intentions.
Strong Support for Renewables
On the other hand, Industry and Science Minister Ed Husic discussed the government’s efforts to develop a national battery strategy aimed at optimizing mineral resources for energy storage.
Australia, a significant producer of lithium and nickel, key components in batteries, is poised to generate energy storage solutions for various sectors using solar power.
The Clean Energy Council Queensland highlighted the significant rise in renewable energy’s contribution to Australia’s energy generation, indicating progress towards the 80 percent target by 2030.
