Despite its commitments to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, Australia has announced its intention to continue using natural gas beyond that date.
This decision has drawn strong criticism from environmental advocates, who call it ” disaster “ for the climate.
Indeed, Australia, one of the largest mining powers in the world, announced on Thursday May 9 that it plans to use natural gas beyond 2050.
The country says its dependence on this fossil fuel will not prevent it from reaching net zero emissions in the next 30 years.
The minister in charge of this sector, Madeleine King, declared that gas “will remain an important Source of energy” in Australia.
“Gas is needed by 2050 and beyond”it will support the economy and be a vector of stability for the country’s electricity distribution network as the use of renewable energy increases, Ms. King said.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese defended the strategy on Thursday and said it would not jeopardize Australia’s climate commitments.
“It is consistent with the position we have long taken, my government is committed to a net zero emissions future“, he declared during a press conference.
“Producing electricity from gas is something that favors renewable (energies). »
Environmental groups have discredited the project. For Jennifer Rayner of the Australian organization Climate Council, Canberra must make a choice between gas and renewable energies.
“The use of natural gas goes against a secure climate future”
“He can’t (choose) both”she said. “More gas is a bad bet that goes against a secure climate future and a thriving clean economy. »
Gavan McFadzean, spokesperson for the Australian Conservation Foundation, says the government’s plan is a ” disaster “ for the climate and that it must be abandoned.
Australia will continue to deliver gas overseas under this plan, which also calls for the exploration and exploitation of new gas fields.
Liquefied natural gas exports brought Australia some €56 billion in 2023, according to government data. Gas also accounts for almost a third of the Oceanic country’s energy consumption, compared to around 8.9% for renewables.
Canberra has committed to reaching net zero emissions by 2050, and in April outlined a green energy investment plan.
With AFP
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