One Nation leader Pauline Hanson has criticised the demolition of the former Liddell Power Station, arguing Australia is destroying vital energy infrastructure without securing reliable replacement power generation.

Hanson said Australia enjoyed some of the world’s cheapest electricity prices during the 2000s when Liddell was operating at full capacity. She accused governments of celebrating the destruction of productive infrastructure while failing to deliver affordable and reliable energy alternatives.

The comments come as the two remaining Liddell power station chimneys are set to be brought down in a controlled demolition, marking the end of an era for one of the Hunter region’s most recognisable industrial landmarks.

Hanson described the demolition as a “national shame” and renewed her opposition to Australia’s net-zero emissions targets. She called for Australia to withdraw from the Paris Agreement, abandon net-zero policies and invest in new coal-fired power generation.

The remarks are likely to reignite debate over Australia’s energy future, with supporters of renewable energy arguing the transition is necessary to reduce emissions, while critics continue to raise concerns about electricity prices, grid reliability and the closure of coal-fired power stations.