Feasibility check: Strategy of powering Aussie aluminium production firms with nuclear energy nothing but a theory?
A recent study has found that three out of Australia’s four aluminium smelters face a serious risk of closure under proposed shifts in energy policy, a development that could shake the entire nation’s economy and threaten thousands of jobs. Why such a speculation? The federal opposition has pledged to construct seven nuclear power plants across five states if elected, arguing that their modelled plan could be 44 per cent cheaper than Labor’s renewable roadmap.
So, what could unfold if the Coalition forms government and pushes this nuclear initiative forward?
Australia’s aluminium smelters are among the highest industrial energy users in the country. The Tomago smelter in New South Wales alone accounts for 12 per cent of the state’s total electricity use. As decarbonisation pressures mount, the industry is searching for dependable, low-emission baseload power. In theory, nuclear fits this requirement. However, Australia has yet to demonstrate any practical application. Rough estimates suggest that powering all four major aluminium smelters with nuclear energy would require around 3 gigawatts of dedicated capacity. That could mean:
Unlock full access – sign up for FREE.
Key benefits
Moonlight-powered panels to mark a new milestone in renewable energy
Next articleDriving towards a fossil-free tomorrow with world’s first electrified highway in Sweden, charging EVs on the go
Grow with
AL Circle
