Victorians are facing the prospect of blackouts and cold showers this winter as the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) issues an urgent threat warning over imminent gas shortages.
AEMO has today warned “the supply of gas in all or part of the east coast gas system may be inadequate to meet demand” due to the potential gas shortfalls following rapid depletion of southern storage inventories.
In response, AEMO has requested producers take additional measures to maximise supply to southern states – including Victoria – and that relevant entities reduce gas consumption for the remainder of the winter period.
Shadow Minister for Energy, Affordability and Security, David Davis, said: “Labor’s ideological opposition to natural gas has placed Victoria at risk of imminent blackouts and energy shortfalls this winter.
“For the best part of a decade, Labor locked up Victoria’s natural gas reserves and has failed to support industry bringing new supplies to market. Now we are seeing the consequences.
“Gas shortages may mean cold showers, cold meals and cold homes for millions of Victorians this winter – as well as even higher energy prices.
“Labor cannot manage money, cannot manage our energy system and Victorians are paying the price.”
