Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla, said at an energy conference in Norway on Monday, Aug. 29, that the world needs more oil and gas to address the energy constraints it is now experiencing, according to a report by Bloomberg.
The statement may seem odd coming from someone who markets solar roofing, electric vehicles, and battery packs, but it is worth noting that Musk has made a similar statement before.
Is Musk in Favor of Fossil Fuels?
Musk had posted something along these lines earlier this year, particularly at the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, while also acknowledging that such a move is probably not in Tesla's best interests.
"Hate to say it, but we need to increase oil & gas output immediately. Extraordinary times demand extraordinary measures," the billionaire said.
However, it is important to look at Musk's statements was aware of the leverage that oil and gas exports offered Russia at the start of the conflict in Ukraine, and his remarks were intended to counteract this. In the context in which they were made, as noted by Interesting Engineering.
Musk is repeating his earlier statements since the situation on the ground hasn't changed, and he is also aware that oil and gas exploration and extraction cant be taken out on a whim. In fact, Europe is going through its worst energy crisis in decades.
European leaders have put aside 280 billion euros ($278 billion) to help firms and families this year despite the rising cost of energy. However, Bloomberg stated in its report that the funds are probably not enough considering the size of the issue.
Musk stated during the event on Monday that he was not one to condemn fossil fuels and that the world now required more oil and gas, not fewer.
While Musk and Tesla are committed to promoting sustainability, it is worth noting that a significant amount of EV sector growth was required to replace the energy produced by fossil fuels.
Musk's Support of Renewable Energies
Musk's support extends beyond the oil and gas sector. In addition to stating at the conference that well-designed nuclear power stations shouldn't be shut down, the billionaire is known to be a supporter of nuclear fuel as a source of emission-free energy.
Interesting Engineering said that his remark appears to be addressed at Germany, which has been deliberately closing down its nuclear units.
The government currently intends to close its three remaining nuclear power facilities by the end of the year, which will exacerbate the energy shortfall brought on by Russia's slashing of oil and gas supply and outages at French nuclear power plants.
Musk also emphasized the "huge untapped potential" of ocean breezes and encouraged that the transition to a sustainable economy takes place as quickly as possible.
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Written by Joaquin Victor Tacla
