‘Infinitely higher’: Andrews blames ‘clunkers’ for power bill crunch
Daniel Andrews has warned Victorians to brace for much higher power prices during the energy transition, after the energy market operator identified the state as at key risk of blackouts this summer because the system is running behind on its conversion to renewable energy.
The expected shutdown of almost two-thirds of Australia’s coal power fleet by 2033 requires “imminent and urgent” investment to keep the lights on through the transition, the Australian Energy Market Operator said in its annual 10-year outlook for power supply and demand on Thursday.
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews says the state remains reliant on “clunker” coal-fired power stations that must be replaced. Jason South
AEMO identified the risk of shortages in Victoria and South Australia as exceeding the strictest benchmark this summer, which is expected to be hotter and have more wind-less days that the past few years. The report predicts higher demand for power, more frequent generator breakdowns, and gas plant closures among other factors.
The Victorian premier said Victoria still relied on “clunker” coal-fired power stations that are old, inefficient, prone to breaking down in heat, and must be replaced.
“We’ve got a whole lot of very, old tired coal-powered power stations. Those companies have told us they’re leaving, and we’re working as hard and as fast as we can to replace them,” Mr Andrews said.
He said COVID-19 had taught us that when things are in short supply, they cost more.
“So if we suddenly have a situation where these coal-fired power stations either break down or leave, both of which are almost certain, (because) they’ve told us they’re going, and they have a history of breaking down when it’s hot, then power prices will be
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