Solar Tech Conference Attendees Walk out on Opposition Energy Spokesman

Mr. O'Brien argued renewables and battery storage technology was experimental and would not generate the energy capacity the country needs endangering the grid.

Opposition energy spokesman Ted O'Brien wants nuclear power added to Australia's energy mix. Ed Jones/AFP via Getty Images

A speech given by Opposition energy spokesman Ted O'Brien at a solar technology event in Brisbane has ended with attendees walking out after the MP claimed Australia’s plans to transition towards renewable energy would make it a “poor and weak nation” plagued by blackouts.

As part of its commitment to meet clean energy targets by 2030, the Australian government is reducing its reliance on coal-powered electricity with wind, hydro, battery, and solar power projects.