Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Inc., stated that in order to combat the current energy crisis and accelerate the switch to renewable sources, more oil and gas are urgently needed.
During a Monday energy conference in Norway, Musk said, “At this point, we actually need more oil and gas, not less.” He added that he is not one to “demonize” fossil fuels. At the same time, “we need a clear path to a future powered by sustainable energy.”
Musk made his remarks as Europe was experiencing its worst energy crisis in decades as a result of Russia cutting back on natural gas deliveries to the area and French nuclear power plant outages further reducing supply.
About 280 billion euros ($278 billion) have already been set aside by European politicians to help businesses and consumers cope with the pain of rising prices; however, the crisis’ scope may make this assistance seem insignificant. The energy ministers of the European Union will meet in an emergency to discuss solutions that apply to the entire bloc.
Musk added that nuclear power is a good idea and that there is “massive untapped potential” for ocean wind.
He argued that you shouldn’t shut down a well-designed nuclear plant, particularly at this time.
Tesla produces products like solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles that help reduce carbon emissions in the energy and transportation sectors.