Australians for Affordable Energy Media Release
Amid today’s news of energy bill spikes, Australians have a new tool to calculate how their bills would fare with a nuclear generation option
It’s been confirmed that unreliable coal-fired electricity plants are causing 2.5-8.9 per cent energy bill increases. That has raised concerns about the Coalition’s nuclear proposal, which would keep households vulnerable to coal price spikes for many years, Australians for Affordable Energy (AFAE) warned today.
With energy costs shaping up as a key election issue, AFAE has launched a free calculator, available at afae.net.au/calculator, which provides a real-world cost estimate for households based on the proposed nuclear energy plan.
The calculator extrapolates from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA) analysis to provide Australians with a clear picture of nuclear energy costs based on international examples.
The tool allows users to input their current electricity costs and household size – or use state averages if unsure – to see potential changes to their bills under various nuclear scenarios and help them make an informed decision.
“Australians are confused about the costs and timelines of building seven nuclear reactors—one of the largest government projects ever proposed. There’s widespread uncertainty in the energy debate, and our goal is to clarify exactly what nuclear power could mean for household bills, good or bad,” said AFAE spokesperson Jo Dodds.
“Cost of living will dominate the upcoming election, and Australians deserve clear answers. Our calculator helps Australians see firsthand whether nuclear energy genuinely stacks up as an affordable option.”
The Australian Energy Regulator confirmed today that power prices are predicted to go up by up to 8.9% per cent from July, forcing families and businesses already struggling with cost-of-living pressures to pay even more for essential electricity.
The price hike directly results from continued reliance on ageing coal-fired power stations. Gas prices also contribute to rising energy costs due to ongoing international volatility, adding uncertainty and pressure to wholesale electricity prices.
“Today’s announcement is another blow to households already struggling. Australians are exhausted as bills keep rising with no clear solutions in sight. Australians for Affordable Energy wants to help everyone understand what these price hikes really mean as we approach the federal election. Australians deserve better than constant uncertainty and higher costs.
“Coal is like a beloved old, beat-up car we keep throwing money at just to keep it running. Nuclear is increasingly becoming something we don’t need and can’t afford. Both drive costs higher without offering practical, affordable solutions. Australians deserve reliable, affordable electricity – not crumbling coal plants or overpriced nuclear projects decades away.”
Australians for Affordable Energy (AFAE) is dedicated to ensuring energy policies prioritise affordability and sustainability for all Australians.
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