Featured in Beyond solar – 08-2023

Not such a lucky country

With its critical-mineral riches, Australia is seeking to process and manufacture materials to capture more of the energy transition value chain. While logical, the path is already proving onerous and is hampered by the nation’s apparent allergy to boldness.

By

Bella Peacock

25 Jul 2023

Independent federal MP Kate Chaney spoke at the WA Renewables and Critical Minerals Superpower Summit, noting there may be a reticence to exploit lithium reserves for foreign processing. | Photo: Smart Energy Summit

With his 1964 book “The Lucky Country,” Australian Donald Horne created a label the nation wears with pride – even if the title was, in fact, an indictment. Australia’s luck had made it lazy, Horne felt, like a spoiled child whose fortune remains, despite mediocrity. Dealt winning hand after winning hand, the nation had never …

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