Australia is at the center of a heated debate over its energy policies, with significant developments unfolding. The Aussie Climate Minister has proposed a plan, dubbed "Electric or Bust", that aims to shift the country towards electric vehicles, a move that critics claim could benefit China and negatively impact US automakers. Concurrently, Peter Dutton, a prominent political figure, is pushing for the adoption of nuclear energy as part of the official Coalition energy policy, citing increasing public support for this direction, aiming for implementation before 2050. This comes amid discussions on the government's proposed emissions standards, which aim for a 60% vehicle emissions reduction and to align Australia with other developed nations. However, the Coalition opposes these standards, advocating instead for nuclear power. Energy Minister Chris Bowen has dismissed claims that the emissions standards would lead to higher costs for consumers, specifically mentioning the Hilux, as a "ridiculous scare campaign" and emphasized that Australia is developing its emissions standards later than other countries.
WATCH: Mike Bowers talks the week in pictures with Andrew Meares #Insiders #auspol https://t.co/8e3GQYFtSm
Has any country attempted a 60% vehicle emissions reduction as quickly as Australia? Energy Minister Chris Bowen tells #Insiders the country is developing emissions standards "very late" by comparison #auspol https://t.co/EzIhOA9PzW
Is the Coalition's claim that a Hilux will cost more under the government's proposed emissions standards true? Energy Minister Chris Bowen tells #Insiders it's a "ridiculous scare campaign" #auspol https://t.co/9UZ7IpGiJg
"I would very much expect that they will amend it, make it more moderate." Are car makers' concerns over the government's proposed emissions standards legitimate? The #Insiders panel discuss #auspol https://t.co/MFcMP7lXHM
WATCH: #Insiders wrap of the week The government wants to bring Australia into line with the rest of the developed world with a new emissions standard. The Coalition is opposing the whole thing, and proposing nuclear power. The debate on energy is just beginning #auspol https://t.co/vUNhesgLET
Will Australia actually have nuclear power before 2050? https://t.co/rCexi4PGY4
Peter Dutton is determined to finish what previous Liberal leaders have failed to do and adopt nuclear energy options as official Coalition energy policy. And public support is tipping his way: https://t.co/WUEVuXxWjL https://t.co/L7pNhfnXKw
Electric or Bust: Aussie Climate Minister's Plan to Boost China and Hurt US Automakers https://t.co/U7xQaYcctB