A Nation Rich in Gas, Yet Importing
In this episode of The Court of Public Opinion, Jeremy Cordeaux expresses his disbelief over Australia’s current energy situation, particularly regarding gas imports. Despite being one of the largest gas producers in the world, Australia is now preparing to import gas due to domestic shortages. “How in God’s name could that be?” Jeremy asks, highlighting the absurdity of the situation. He criticises the government for allowing the country to reach this point, despite its vast natural gas reserves.
Jeremy points out that Australia should be more than capable of meeting its own energy needs without resorting to imports. He argues that this reliance on gas imports, in a country rich with energy resources, is a failure of leadership and planning. “We are literally sitting on a goldmine of gas, and yet here we are, preparing to import it,” Jeremy adds, frustrated by the current state of energy policy in Australia.
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Government Policy to Blame
Jeremy is quick to place the blame for Australia’s energy crisis on government policies, particularly their focus on alternative energy sources. “Two words: Government Policy,” Jeremy says, emphasising how poor planning and over-reliance on renewables have caused the current shortages. He believes the government’s focus on renewables has neglected coal and gas, causing energy instability.
According to Jeremy, the focus on renewable energy has been premature, given the country’s dependency on more reliable energy sources. “The government is so obsessed with being green that they’ve forgotten how to keep the lights on,” he remarks. He stresses the need for a balanced energy approach that integrates both renewable and traditional sources to prevent future crises.
Australia’s Gas and Energy Future
Australia’s first gas import terminal is preparing to open. Jeremy warns that this is a clear indication of just how mismanaged the country’s energy sector has become. He sees this development as a sign of broader issues in Australia’s gas-focused energy policy. “We should not be importing what we have in abundance,” Jeremy states, urging the government to reassess its approach to energy production and distribution.
Jeremy stresses focusing on reliable energy sources, saying, “We must return to reality.” Australia’s energy security relies on a pragmatic approach, balancing renewable and traditional energy sources.
Topic time in podcast and video: 13:29 – 14:48
