The Rudd govenment is committed to building out Australia's infrastructure. Right now, with a huge amount of aging coal-fired capacity in need of replacement, there's a once in a lifetime opportunity to make a major leap forward. This should include creating a future-proof energy system that would serve the country well for a century or more, possibly forever.
Australia needs to spend $20-35 billion in coming years on replacing electricity generation capacity. It probably needs to spend about the same on water. It also needs to spend big on power lines and pipes to get this electricity and water to its populace. Applying flexible, proven technology and accompanying it with economic reform will create an energy and water system that should pay for itself. With an infrastructure deficit now looming of roughly $90 billion, it's important for Australia's future economic growth to get this right. The Committee for Economic Development of Australia estimated Australia's GDP could be 0.8% a year higher -- or roughly $6 billion -- with the right infrastructure in place.
This study has outlined specific ideas such as stringing high capacity power lines to the outback, nuclear power at Roxby Downs, power parks, wind and wave energy from the Nullarbor. Not all of these may come to fruition, but they do bear thinking about. At this unique juncture in Australia's history, it's time for us all to dream a little
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| ASFEE's proposals fit many of the answers sought by the Rudd government's 2020 Summit |
| Source: Sydney Morning Herald |