The Price of Power: Labor, Liberal Face Off in High-Stakes Energy Debate

From nuclear to renewables, gas to grid costs, both sides pitched their visions for Australia’s energy future.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen speaks to guests at the APAC Hydrogen Summit in Brisbane, Australia on Sept. 13, 2024. AAP Image/Jono Searle

Energy Minister Chris Bowen and his opposition counterpart Ted O'Brien locked horns in a fiery debate that set the tone for what could be the most consequential policy contest of the election.

At the National Press Club on April 10, Bowen opened by declaring that the Albanese government’s plan is evidence-based and backed by the CSIRO and energy regulators.