Former NSW treasurer Matt Kean has been appointed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to chair the Climate Change Authority, replacing Grant King. Mr. Kean’s appointment comes after his decision to exit the NSW Parliament to pursue a career in the energy sector.
Despite his previous support for small modular nuclear reactors, Mr. Kean has now voiced strong opposition to the technology, putting him at odds with other Liberal members.
Role of the Climate Change Authority
The Climate Change Authority, established in 2012, conducts research and advises the government on climate policy implementation. It provides advice on greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets, the carbon farming initiative, and the climate safeguard mechanism. The agency also promotes higher investment in renewable energy generation.
Mr. Albanese praised Mr. Kean’s understanding of the importance of renewables for the nation and the business community’s need for certainty in investment. He emphasized Mr. Kean’s focus on making a difference for future generations.
Regarding nuclear energy, Mr. Kean stated that decisions should be based on economics and engineering to avoid financial burdens on the state and families. He acknowledged the potential of small modular nuclear reactors as exciting technology for the future.
The Coalition’s Nuclear Policy
Mr. Kean’s differing stance on energy contrasts with the federal Coalition’s push for nuclear energy. Opposition Leader Peter Dutton has proposed building seven nuclear power plants by 2050 as part of the energy mix with renewables.
Former NSW Liberal executive member Matthew Camenzuli expressed his lack of surprise at Mr. Kean’s appointment and suggested he should resign from the Liberal Party due to conflicting views on nuclear power.
Mr. Kean’s resignation from the Coalition for Conservation (C4C) further highlights the division within the party regarding nuclear energy.
