The energy transition drifting into the doldrums should surprise no one (\u201cGreen power fading fast\u201d, 27\/1). <\/p>\n
Wind turbines typically last only 20-25 years, and even that depends on intensive maintenance. Solar panels fare slightly better at 20-30 years.<\/p>\n
By the time the so-called \u201cBowen experiment\u201d runs its course, we\u2019ll be facing the next challenge: replacing the very turbines and panels we\u2019ve only just finished installing. Both technologies suffer from limited recycling options, leaving a growing waste problem that policymakers prefer not to mention.<\/p>\n
John Field, Coolum Beach, Vic<\/p>\n
With renewable energy investment tanking and eye-watering energy costs tipped to keep soaring, when will all politicians admit that the fantasy of the country running on wind and solar is justly dead? When you have politicians referring to essential baseload power as a \u201cmyth\u201d, then you know the adults have left the room.<\/p>\n
This energy tragedy is like Eugene O\u2019Neill\u2019s play, Long Day\u2019s Journey into Night, with the members of the play\u2019s disintegrating family corresponding to different types of the unreliable energy family. Let\u2019s give this energy disaster the final curtain, leave the theatrics behind and re-enter the real world.<\/p>\n
Helen Dyer, Ferndale, WA<\/p>\n
It was both satisfying and predictable to note that our green energy targets are wilting. Wind and solar projects\u2019 nicknames \u2013 \u201cruinables\u201d and\/or \u201cunreliables\u201d \u2013 are a reminder of their negative effects on our landscape and economy. <\/p>\n
They consume resources that would otherwise be used for the advancement of our pastoral and tourist industries. Issues with emissions can be capably handled by energy-efficient gas and nuclear power.<\/p>\n
GM Derrick, Corinda, Qld<\/p>\n
Inflation increases the chance of an interest rate hike (\u201cElectricity prices tipped to fuel rate hike\u201d, 27\/1). <\/p>\n
Power bills are rising, as are other costs. A key issue for ordinary Australians is that food prices are going up more than most. <\/p>\n
Energy and food are essentials. Some purchases can be put off, but these cannot. Regular heatwaves are disrupting fruit and vegetable production in Victoria and elsewhere. Flooding in Queensland has inundated grazing country, causing heavy stock losses and damaging infrastructure. <\/p>\n
These events are part of the worsening extremes of global warming. The National Farmers Federation confirms that climate change continues to push up the cost of groceries. Worsening inflation caused by rising food prices is just one part of the long-term cost to Australia, if we put off transitioning to renewables.<\/p>\n
John Hughes, Mentone, Vic <\/p>\n
The increasing likelihood of the Albanese government missing its 2030 renewable energy target by as much as a decade, necessitating the extension of coal-fired power plants and an increasing use of gas, shows that a renewables-dominant energy system is not workable. It shows a balanced energy mix, including nuclear power, is the only pragmatic energy system that serves all Australians.<\/p>\n
Ron Hobba, Camberwell, Vic<\/p>\n
Canada\u2019s Prime Minister, Mark Carney, has outlined plans to significantly expand Canada\u2019s LNG industry, targeting Asian markets over coming decades. <\/p>\n
The reasoning is clear: LNG provides reliable, lower-emissions baseload power, displaces coal and supports economic growth across Asia. Australia\u2019s position, by contrast, is deeply concerning.<\/p>\n
We hold vast gas reserves and were once a global LNG leader, yet now face domestic gas shortages, high energy prices and inflationary pressure. This is not due to lack of resources, but policy settings that discourage exploration, development and new supply.<\/p>\n
Gas is not a barrier to the energy transition; it is essential to it. Gas-fired power can replace coal, firm renewables, and do so without the enormous cost and disruption of additional transmission infrastructure. It is also the logical bridge to a future nuclear option.<\/p>\n
Instead, Australia restricts supply while competitors move decisively into markets that should naturally be ours. Australians pay more, our competitiveness erodes, and our strategic position weakens. Canada\u2019s move should be a wake-up call.<\/p>\n
Alexander Judzewitsch, Runaway Bay, Qld<\/p>\n