Victoria's gas decision a sensible step forward

The Australian Energy Council has supported the Victorian Government’s decision to remove the ban on onshore gas exploration and production.

The Australian Energy Council’s Chief Executive Sarah McNamara said the decision was a sensible one supported by the science.

“Ensuring reliable gas supplies into the future will help affordability for domestic, commercial and industrial customers.

 “Readily available gas will also be an important, flexible back-up fuel that is likely to help ensure the reliability of the state’s grid as older coal-fired power plants retire and more wind and solar generation comes into the system.

 “This decision should boost Victoria’s energy security.”

Ms McNamara said that while the lifting of the conventional gas ban was a step forward, the AEC remained disappointed by the ongoing ban on unconventional gas.

“We acknowledge that the Victorian Government took its position to an election, but believe unconventional gas can also make a valuable contribution and as shown by previous reviews, such the Northern Territory’s, can be effectively managed.”

About the Australian Energy Council

The Council represents 23 major electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. These businesses collectively generate the overwhelming majority of electricity in Australia and sell gas and electricity to over 10 million homes and businesses.