The Tasmanian Government has welcomed an inquiry into the state’s energy security as an opportunity to understand the challenges and opportunities facing the state in the future.
Tasmanian Premier Will Hodgman said the State Government will consider the recommendations put forward by the inquiry into the financial position and performance of government owned energy entities and will listen to any concerns that arise.
The inquiry comes after a fault in the Basslink in early 2016 coupled with low rainfall causing low dam storage levels to create insecurity in the state’s energy supply.
“The Tasmanian Government is committed to ensuring that the circumstances that led to the energy security event earlier this year are never again repeated,” Mr Hodgman said.
“We will take this opportunity to reassess Tasmania’s energy security environment and understand what the future challenges and opportunities are likely to be for energy in Tasmania.”
Mr Hodgman said the inquiry was also a key reason for the setup of the Energy Security Taskforce, led by Geoff Willis.
“We have already seen Hydro Tasmania targeting higher water storage levels for this year to further bolster energy security for the state, as well as ensuring that the Tamar Valley gas generation remains available should it be needed,” Mr Hodgman said.
“We will also continue to focus on ensuring efficiency in the operation of our energy businesses to help put further downward pressure on power prices.
“We are committed to doing everything we can to ensure the lowest possible sustainable power prices and it’s important to note that regulated power prices are still lower today than when we first came to Government.”
