Grace Stanke, nuclear engineer and former Miss America, is on a national tour in Australia advocating for nuclear power. Her visit coincides with rising political tensions ahead of a national election, where the opposition Liberal Party proposes building seven nuclear reactors by 2035.
Supporters, including rural residents weary of large-scale renewable projects, welcome nuclear as a reliable energy solution. However, critics point to the high costs, long timelines, and environmental risks. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese rejected the proposal, focusing on renewables as the key to Australia’s energy future.
Stanke argues nuclear energy offers consistent power, complementing renewables. She highlighted the importance of balancing the energy grid with both resources. The debate is gaining traction as rural opposition to wind and solar projects grows, with petitions and protests increasing in recent years.
Renewable projects have sparked local outrage, particularly in areas like Queensland’s Hazeldean and Gin Gin, where residents fear the environmental impact and disruption caused by solar farms and battery storage plants. Some communities now view nuclear energy as a preferable alternative due to its smaller land footprint and potential for job creation.
Stanke’s tour, organized by 18-year-old pro-nuclear advocate Will Shackel, is an effort to lift the nuclear ban and shift public perception. Shackel’s petition to lift the nuclear energy ban has garnered over 80,000 signatures. Both Shackel and Stanke briefed Australian politicians in Canberra, outlining their case for nuclear energy as part of the future energy mix.
While the Labor government continues to favor renewables, nuclear energy is back on the agenda for the first time in decades. The outcome of the upcoming election could shape Australia’s energy policy for years to come.
