A new report from Australia’s Climate Change Authority suggests that the opposition’s nuclear power proposal would lead to an increase of 2 billion tonnes of emissions by 2050. The study claims that delays in renewable energy deployment would extend reliance on coal, undermining national climate targets.
The report has sparked political tensions, with opposition figures questioning the credibility of the Climate Change Authority. Senator Jane Hume suggested that the body’s head, Matt Kean, could be removed if the Coalition wins the next election, citing concerns over politicisation.
Nuclear Transition Could Delay Emissions Cuts
According to the Climate Change Authority, the Coalition’s plan to build seven nuclear plants by 2050 would lead to prolonged coal usage, delaying emissions reductions.
Under Australia’s current energy trajectory—outlined by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)—coal plants are set to phase out over the next decade, allowing for a faster transition to renewable sources.
By prioritising nuclear energy, the Coalition’s strategy would push back key climate targets, including the goal of 82% renewable electricity by 2030. Under the proposed nuclear plan, this threshold would not be reached until 2042—a 12-year delay.
The report highlights that the cumulative impact of these delays would be substantial. Emissions would remain high for longer due to continued reliance on coal-fired power stations, which emit significantly more carbon than renewables.
Manufacturers, transport, and other industries that depend on a cleaner grid would also face increased emissions levels as a result.
Political Backlash Over Climate Change Authority Findings
The report has fuelled political divisions, with opposition figures dismissing its conclusions. Shadow Minister for Climate Change and Energy Ted O’Brien labelled the study as a “puppet of Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen”, accusing the government of using it to push an anti-nuclear narrative.
O’Brien did not address the projected 2 billion tonnes of additional emissions, instead arguing that the Coalition’s nuclear plan would reduce emissions after 2049. The report’s authors maintain that delaying reductions in the short term could significantly impact long-term climate commitments.
Senator Jane Hume escalated the dispute by suggesting that Matt Kean’s role as head of the Climate Change Authority could be reconsidered under a future Coalition government. She argued that the authority had been “badly politicised” and was failing in its duty to provide independent advice.
The debate over nuclear energy in Australia has been a persistent issue, with the CSIRO previously stating that nuclear power would be more expensive than renewables with battery storage.
