According to the Australian Energy Market Operator’s (AEMO) recent statement, Victoria’s gas shortage crisis, which was expected this year, has been pushed back to 2028.

AEMO’s report highlighted that the 2028 shortage is expected to emerge “if conditions lead to sustained high gas usage”.

The Labor government are prepared to fight the opposition over energy security as Energy Minister Chris Bowen highlighted transition goals.

“Gas has an important role to play in our energy system as we transition towards 82 per cent renewables. Unlike coal or nuclear gas power generators can be turned on and off in a couple of minutes,” Bowen said.

“And when it’s off, it’s zero emissions.”

AEMO’s forecasts warned that “peak-day shortfalls” were to start plaguing the market as soon as this winter, but the immediate threat of shortages has passed as supply situation improves.

Lead gas analyst at the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA), Joshua Runcimen, said the household and commercial demand for gas in Victoria had fallen by 5 percent in the past year.

“While some of this fall reflects milder winter weather reducing heating load, it also reflects electrification and declining demand due to high gas prices,” he said.

Opposition leader Peter Dutton said a coalition government would streamline approval for gas projects and limit challenges to environmental approvals.

Photo: Natural gas burning on a gas stove by Warszawska róg Szerokiej w Tomaszowie Mazowieckim, woj. łódzkie found HERE and used under a Creative Commons license. This image has not been modified.