Wednesday 9 February 2011

Ferguson to push uranium

Summaries - Australian Financial Review
3 February 2011, Page: 3


Resources Minister Martin Ferguson yesterday said Australia would pursue testing of alternative renewable energies, such as clean coal technology, solar power, geothermal, biomass, ocean and wind power, before using nuclear power as a method of combating climate change. However, Mr Ferguson said, "I am supportive of international efforts to strengthen,.. the safer use and proper development of the nuclear industry".

Australian Workers Union national secretary Paul Howes and Queensland Premier Anna Bligh have encouraged the Australian Labor Party to revise its stance on nuclear power. Prime Minister Julia Gillard's climate change committee is due to resume meetings next week, and the government is also in the midst of working through methods of pricing carbon. Mr Ferguson, however, was advised by the Resources Department in their "red book" to boost Australian uranium markets through more international engagement on nuclear power, like a greater participation in the International Framework for Nuclear Energy Cooperation.

The minister recently revealed that Indian Foreign Minister S.M. Krishna had urged him to allow India to receive Australian uranium shipments. Michael Angwin, chief executive of the Australian Uranium Association, also urged the Australian government to foster a domestic nuclear power industry, saying, "there is no reason for Australia not to give consideration to a nuclear industry here".

2 comments:

solar energy systems australia said...

It seems Australia is leading world in encouraging renewable source of energy. It's using and installing soalr energy in homes at fast pace. Good job!

solar electricity panels Melbourne said...

Solar energy is a renewable energy source because it will exist for as long as our sun does, estimated to be another 4.5 billion years. A few companies are trying to create solar quantum dots, which will be mixed in the paint you use for your home. If it will be successful, science will lead to a new solar world.