SA power plan proves urgent need for national policy

States will be forced to act in their own energy security interests until we have national agreement on energy and carbon policy, Energy Networks Australia CEO John Bradley said today following the release of the South Australian Government’s power plan.

Mr Bradley welcomed the integrated approach to power system security, storage technologies and gas supply development but said a national plan is still required.

“Energy security is vital to homes and businesses and we understand the South Australian Government needed to put this beyond doubt,” Mr Bradley said.

“But breakout measures by State Governments should be a last resort in a national energy market and serve as a warning that the COAG Energy Council processes are not working effectively.”

Mr Bradley said the South Australian Government’s plan recognises the need for an integrated approach to system stability.

“This plan encourages new gas supplies which help to support system security, allows a competitive process for large scale storage and enables gas-fired generation to support a stable and reliable grid,” he said.

“We welcome indications that the Plan’s key measures are intended to integrate with future national mechanisms for grid stability and carbon policy.

“However, some of the mechanisms in the Plan could have implications for storage or generation market participants wanting to invest on a commercial basis.

“We still need a national plan that supports commercial investment in energy markets without major administrative interventions by government.

“Australians are expecting the Finkel Review Blueprint to deliver that plan.”

ENDS

Media contact: Taryn Bevege (02) 6272 1524 or 0447569029

Energy Networks Australia represents Australia’s electricity transmission and distribution networks and gas distribution networks. Our members provide energy to virtually every household and business in Australia.