Victoria’s energy supply is at risk according to a new report by the nation’s electricity and gas market watchdog.
The report from the Australian Energy Market Operator suggests the state’s energy security has taken a nosedive in the past six months, with Victoria now home to the least secure energy supply in the nation.
Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said the reports indicated the region is set for even more energy blackouts over summer and higher prices for consumers.
“These supply shortfalls are expected to drive prices even higher, leading to further hikes in already out of control power bills for local residents and businesses,” Ms Cleeland said.
“We are already coming off two consecutive years of price rises, and we’ve seen impact this has by putting extra strain on households and businesses that are already struggling with high inflation, soaring interest rates, and a cost-of-living crisis.”
With the worst of the blackouts forecast for the upcoming summer, Ms Cleeland said this was sadly nothing new for much of the electorate.
“Within the Euroa electorate, the reliability of energy supply has been questionable at best,” Ms Cleeland said.
“In times of emergency and crisis, such as the storms in Pyalong in 2021 or the October 2022 floods, members of the community have been unable to rely on their electricity.
“However, it’s not just times of emergency where the reliability of our energy is compromised – regular blackouts occur over much of the region.”
The Andrews government’s controversial decision to ban gas in new homes from next year could also increase pressure on energy consumption during the winter, while wind farm generation faces an uncertain period in the warmer months.
“Yet again, decisions by this Government have been rushed and the consequences have been ignored,” Ms Cleeland said.
“We know that the move to renewable energy can be achieved, but while this transition is occurring, it is imperative that the reliability of our electricity supply is prioritised for the benefit of our community.”
