The Energy Debate

Jason Miles pledges to represent majority 

27 Jun 2024 Opinion Editorial published in the Burnett Today

As an independent running in the seat of Nanango, it is the will of the people that matters. And given I am running; it is important I understand all three sides to this argument. 

The Energy Debate
Australia stands at a pivotal moment in its energy strategy, and the debate over nuclear power has never been more pressing. As a vast nation abundant in natural resources, we have a unique opportunity to harness the benefits of nuclear energy to propel us towards a sustainable and prosperous future. Both the major parties have made it clear coal is done, so Australians either change the two-party system or we pick from Labor and LNP's choices that are served up to us. 

I have spoken with many people in the region, and the majority are in favour of nuclear. Not all, but the majority. Those not in favour cited comments made on the ABC and politicians as their source of information. In these times, people look to their politicians for leadership. But if both have opposing views, and promote different information, then who is right? Well, both can be right and both can be wrong. It depends on how transparent they are with the public. As a local, and someone that lives near Tarong, I have spent many hours researching nuclear from non-government commissioned, unimpaired experts. What I do know, is that money seems to dictate the outcome, so I researched those who stand to gain nothing. 

What I know
Nuclear power offers a reliable and low-carbon alternative to fossil fuels. Unlike coal or natural gas, nuclear power generates electricity without emitting greenhouse gases, making it a crucial component of our transition to a cleaner energy mix.  Nuclear power provides a stable and consistent source of baseload electricity, and that is the main requirement to coal. We must have a stable and consistent baseload to coal, and renewables are not going to cut it.

Australia's energy grid faces challenges from intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar, which require backup power or energy storage solutions. Nuclear power plants operate continuously, providing a reliable base load that complements variable renewable energy sources and enhances grid stability.
Moreover, nuclear energy contributes to energy security and independence.

With abundant uranium reserves domestically and advanced technology in nuclear reactor design, Australia has the potential to reduce its reliance on imported energy sources and strengthen its energy sovereignty. This not only enhances national security but also insulates us from fluctuations in global energy markets. It can also be the stimulus to bring decarbonised, industrial manufacturing back to the region. 

Addressing the concerns
Critics often cite concerns about safety and waste management, but modern nuclear technologies address these issues effectively. We have 32 countries with 440 reactors around the world to learn from, include 93 in the United States. Plus, Australia is geographically stable in that we don't have major earthquakes and tsunamis. The 32 countries before us have done the heavy lifting so we know where to build them and how to build them . Furthermore, innovations in nuclear waste management, such as reprocessing and advanced storage solutions, minimise environmental impact and maximise resource efficiency.

I will represent you, regardless of my views
As a local, independent candidate, ultimately, I will represent the views of the majority of the community if elected. I will add, that it is critical we all do research and ensure we have a full understanding of what are facts and what are opinion.