This week Q+A looks at Australia’s energy crisis – what is the Government doing about it and what does it mean for you?
The east coast supply shortage is worsening with threats of possible power interruptions to NSW, QLD, VIC, SA and Tasmania this week. While the nation’s energy ministers agree there is no quick fix, they’re backing a longer-term plan to address the supply gap, which includes establishing a new gas storage reserve.
The federal government has also given the green light for retailers to pay power providers to maintain extra capacity in case it is needed. Domestic electricity and gas prices have surged to unprecedented levels in recent months with several of the country’s ageing coal-fired power stations out of action and overseas gas prices skyrocketing due the war in Ukraine.
Former Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull says the immediate solution is to impose export volume and price controls but Energy Minister Chris Bowen says there’s “no silver bullet” solution to lower energy prices. Where does this leave Labor’s election promise for cheaper energy prices? And can state and federal governments work together to strengthen energy policy in Australia?
The current crisis has highlighted the challenges associated with the transition from fossil fuels to cleaner energy. Labor’s Rewiring the Nation policy aims to connect renewables to the grid through a new $20 billion public corporation, part of its broader pledge to cut Australia’s emissions by 43% by 2030.
Is this the best path forward? How will the new government work with the new parliament, which includes three new Greens MPs and seven independents, who were voted in on more ambitious climate targets?
The current rising energy costs add another layer of economic burden for Australians already struggling. How will the new government navigate its way through the current crisis?
Joining Virginia Trioli on the panel:
Chris Bowen
Minister for Energy and Climate Change
Chris Bowen entered Parliament in 2004 and has held a wide range of portfolios including serving as Treasurer, Minister for Human Services, and Minister for Immigration.
Zoe Daniel
Independent member for Goldstein
Zoe Daniel is the new Independent member for Goldstein, becoming the first woman to win the once-safe Liberal seat.
Saul Griffith
Inventor, author, and scientist
Saul Griffith is an inventor, author, and founder of multiple companies and nonprofits.
Sarah McNamara
Chief Executive of the Australian Energy Council
Sarah McNamara was appointed as Chief Executive of the Australian Energy Council in July 2018, and has more than a decade of experience working with policy and regulatory frameworks across the resources and energy sectors.
Tony Wood
Energy and Climate Change Program Director, Grattan Institute
Tony Wood has been Director of the Energy Program at Grattan Institute since 2011, after 14 years working at Origin Energy in senior executive roles.
