Part 7/13:
The Myth of Renewable Cost-Effectiveness and Australia’s Nuclear Abstention
Manuk criticizes the Australian optimism that renewables alone can secure a cost-effective energy future. She argues that, outside certain regions, high levels of renewables without significant backup sources like nuclear or coal tend to increase power costs and reduce industrial competitiveness.
She is perplexed by Australia's exclusion of nuclear energy, especially as many similar nations are embracing it. Countries like Japan, France, and parts of the U.S. are expanding nuclear capacity precisely because it offers a stable, large-scale, zero-emission energy source. Australia's refusal to consider nuclear limits its ability to diversify and secure its energy needs.