AEC says Energy Ministers’ statement is encouraging

The peak body for energy retailers and generators, the Australian Energy Council, says the Energy Ministers’ Communique following their meeting sends the right message to the market.  

The AEC’s Chief Executive, Sarah McNamara, said, “We know there is not a quick fix for the problems in the market at the moment and that’s why we are pleased to see the focus on measured solutions that will provide a long-term benefit to consumers. 

“We are also very encouraged by the Federal, State and Territory Ministers’ commitment to work together to ensure Australia’s energy system is affordable, reliable and secure during the transition to more renewables-based generation.  Critical to this is the ongoing work, led by the Energy Security Board, on a mechanism to ensure there is sufficient dispatchable supply available in the market as that transition is underway.

“We also welcome the decision to focus on market mechanisms to ensure supply and acknowledge there remains a lot of work to do in this area. 

“At the moment, short term issues are causing genuine pain for consumers across Australia, focussing on getting reforms right will help protect Australia’s electricity networks in the future,” said Ms McNamara.

About the Australian Energy Council 

The Australian Energy Council is the peak industry body for electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in the competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. AEC members generate and sell energy to 10 million homes and businesses and are major investors in renewable energy generation. The AEC supports reaching net-zero by 2050 as well as a 55 per cent emissions reduction target by 2035 and is committed to delivering the energy transition for the benefit of consumers.