AUSTRALIA’S Resources and Energy Group AREEA commends Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg for seeking to end ideological influences in the debate around the security and affordability of Australia’s energy supplies.
“Minister Frydenberg is right in characterising the national energy debate as no longer being an economic debate, but worryingly also turning into a cultural and ideological debate,” said AREEA chief executive Steve Knott.
“We welcome the Minister seeking to put an end to this and to restore sensibility and pragmatism to what is an incredibly important policy area affecting every Australian.
“All Australians require a secure, reliable and adequate supply of energy at an affordable price.
“This is not only imperative for maintaining Australia’s living standards but also for our future economic growth and national prosperity.
“The war on coal is misguided and dangerous. Calls to nationalise energy assets are misguided and dangerous.
“Given our abundance of national resources, Australia’s energy costs should be a source of competitive advantage over the many countries we compete against in the international marketplace.
“The way to achieve this is to objectively and sensibly consider our entire energy mix and to find an appropriate balance between coal, gas and renewable energy sources while meeting our international obligations on carbon reduction.
“Such an approach will also give the business community confidence and allow it to grow, create jobs and drive our economy.”
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MEDIA CONTACT: Tom Reid, 0419 153 407