Just eight days out from the mothballing of the Tamar Valley Power Station’s Combined Cycle Gas Unit (CCGU), the government has finally come to its senses on gas.
After months of Labor campaigning, an agreement has been reached between Hydro Tasmania and Tasmanian Gas Pipeline (TGP) to ensure the ongoing availability of the CCGU.
Shadow Minister for Energy, Dean Winter, said it would be a relief to major energy users and gas consumers everywhere.
“Finally, we have seen Guy Barnett come to his senses on gas,” Mr Winter said.
“After months of denying a gas supply contract was necessary for the CCGU, and Hydro Tasmania refusing to negotiate for an appropriate gas supply contract, they have announced a deal with TGP.
“It is a relief that the Liberals have finally accepted Labor’s argument that the CCGU remains a critical piece of Tasmania’s energy security plan.
“The delay, right up to eight days before the planned mothballing of the CCGU, has caused unnecessary anxiety within Tasmanian industry, and that is very unfortunate.
“The Liberals’ reckless approach to energy security was on show for months as it refused to ensure the ongoing availability of Tasmania’s last resort energy generator.
“I’d like to congratulate the Tasmanian Gas Pipeline on the way it has worked to ensure Tasmanian energy users are protected, and that Tasmanians see a fair deal for energy security in the state.”
Dean Winter MP
Shadow Energy Minister
