Leaders of the Australian opposition, the Liberal-National Coalition (LNP), have confirmed their intention to introduce nuclear energy in Australia if elected.
They have identified seven potential sites for nuclear power plants, all located at existing or soon-to-be-closed power stations.
Strategic Locations for Nuclear Plants
Peter Dutton, leader of the LNP, along with deputy leader David Littleproud and Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien, unveiled the proposed locations.
These sites offer technical advantages for nuclear plants, such as cooling water capacity and existing transmission infrastructure, minimizing costs associated with new infrastructure development.
The Coalition emphasized the importance of a balanced energy mix to ensure affordable, clean, and reliable electricity.
With 90% of baseload electricity, primarily from coal-fired power stations, nearing the end of its operational life within the next decade, they argue that nuclear energy is a timely solution to complement renewable energy and gas.
Government-Owned, Partner-Operated Model
Initially, the government plans to develop two nuclear projects, utilizing either small modular reactors (SMRs) or larger plants like the AP1000 or APR1400.
These projects are expected to be operational by 2035 for SMRs and 2037 for larger plants. The Australian government would own these assets but partner with experienced nuclear companies for construction and operation.
The coalition has identified seven potential sites for nuclear plants, including Liddell Power Station and Mount Piper Power Station in New South Wales, Loy Yang Power Stations in Victoria, Tarong Power Station and Callide Power Station in Queensland, Northern Power Station in South Australia, and Muja Power Station in Western Australia.
Notably, the South Australian and Western Australian sites are reserved for SMRs.
Cost-Effective and Community-Focused Approach
The coalition believes that repurposing existing coal plant sites will reduce costs compared to a “renewables-only” approach.
It also emphasizes the benefits of providing high-paying, multi-generational jobs and other economic advantages to local communities.
The CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has estimated the capital cost for deploying a large-scale nuclear plant in Australia to be AUD8665 (USD5775) per kilowatt, stating it is not economically competitive with renewables.
However, Dutton claims the Coalition’s plan would be significantly cheaper than the Labor government’s renewable-based proposals.
Criticism and Counterarguments
Australia’s Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Chris Bowen, criticized the opposition’s plan as “risky,” lacking in detail, cost analysis, and modeling.
Dutton countered by welcoming the next election as a “referendum on energy,” highlighting the importance of nuclear power and stable electricity prices for the country’s future.
Colin Boyce, the member of parliament for the electorate of Flynn in Queensland, where the Callide Power Station is located, expressed support for the plan. He believes the project would create jobs and opportunities for the local community while ensuring reliable baseload power for Central Queensland.