Long-term 2050 roadmap needed alongside nuclear debate
19 June 2024
The Business Council says there should be a technology agnostic approach to the transition to net zero emissions, including nuclear and all forms of energy, however the priority must be addressing short-term energy shortfalls while developing a long-term comprehensive roadmap to 2050.
Business Council Chief Executive Bran Black supported the lifting of the nuclear ban in Australia, leaving it open to the community and the private sector to consider.
“The BCA position is we should be technology agnostic including nuclear and all forms of energy as we transition to net zero emissions by 2050 and we welcome the Coalition’s move to lift the ban on nuclear,” Mr Black said.
“However, questions still remain how quickly nuclear could realistically be built and what impact it would have on the roll out of renewables and the associated investment decisions that will be required by private capital.
“Understanding the cost and timeframes for implementation is critical because the Coalition is proposing to pay for and own these nuclear sites, and that in turn affects the assessment of whether other energy projects are viable.”
Mr Black called on all sides of the Parliament to develop a detailed a long-term plan to reach net zero by 2050, which would provide certainty for business.
“Australia urgently needs a long-term roadmap to net zero by 2050 that builds on interim targets and provides detail regarding the policy settings and technology that will deliver cheaper and reliable energy and reduced emissions.
“The BCA’s priority is keeping the lights on, reducing cost and transitioning to a net zero emissions economy, and the only way to deliver that is by providing business and industry certainty so significant and long-term investment decisions can be made.