The Hon. David Speirs, Leader of the Opposition (SA); The Hon. Stephen Patterson, Shadow Minister for Energy (SA), Joint Media Release, 2 July 2024
Leader of the Opposition, David Speirs, will today [2 July 2024] travel to Port Augusta for the first time since the Federal Coalition announced the Spencer Gulf city as one of seven locations it proposes to build zero-emissions nuclear power plants.
The State Liberal Opposition is keen to explore the viability of a civil nuclear industry in South Australia – and its potential to lower energy prices – which is why it’s committed to a Royal Commission to investigate what is needed to enable nuclear energy generation in our state.
The State and Federal announcements were made as South Australians continue to pay some of the highest electricity prices in the world during the cost of living crisis, so the need to explore cheaper and more consistent electricity options is vital.
Under Labor, the typical South Australian family is more than $20,000 worse off per year as living expenses continue to soar.
Mr Speirs will be joined by Shadow Minister for Energy, Stephen Patterson, at a listening post in Port Augusta which will give the local community an opportunity to express their views and discuss the potential benefits of the proposed nuclear power plant.
Leader of the Opposition, David Speirs, said he’s looking forward to speaking with the local community on the ground about the potential future of nuclear.
“Port Augusta has a history of being an energy hub, and we believe a nuclear power plant has the potential to provide a much-needed boost to the local economy and create hundreds of jobs,” Mr Speirs said.
“The huge cost of electricity is hurting South Australian households and small businesses, so we must be proactive in exploring all viable options for more affordable, reliable power sources.
“With AUKUS submarines set to be built in South Australia, there is surely no better time to move towards a nuclear-ready future.
“It’s crucial that we engage with the local community every step of the way, and I look forward to having those conversations with locals and community leaders in Port Augusta today and in the weeks, months and years ahead.”
Shadow Minister for Energy and Net Zero, Stephen Patterson, said with Port Augusta having previously been home to a power station, the city understands the benefits of being a key energy provider.
“When the Northern Power Station closed in 2016, it created a significant economic shock for Port Augusta and left a void in the community,” Mr Patterson said.
“We believe with the city’s history in power generation there is a willingness to embrace nuclear energy generation.
“South Australia is where 25 per cent of the world’s uranium is found, and our state holds 80 per cent of the nation’s known uranium reserves, so the opportunities to participate more fully in the nuclear fuel cycle could be enormous for the entire state.
“With nuclear energy we see an opportunity not only to bring the cost of power bills down, but to boost our economy in the long run.”
