Powerlink Chief Executive Paul Simshauser has asked Queenslanders to try and manage their electricity consumption from 5pm this evening and again tomorrow morning due to a forecast possible shortfall in electricity supply.
The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has identified the potential for electricity demand to exceed supply in Queensland in peak periods (5pm to 8.30pm and again in the early mornings before 8am) for the next day or so prompting a call for energy consumption to be managed across Queensland.
There is an unusual combination of unexpected generator outages plus cool Winter temperatures and high demand for electricity. Gas supplies are sufficient however very high gas prices means AEMO has already triggered its market generation response mechanisms.
Mr Simshauser said by managing electricity consumption – especially in the evening and mornings – people can help to ensure that available supply is used in the fairest and most efficient manner across industry, the community and essential services.
“Community safety and wellbeing is important so only manage energy consumption if it is safe to do so,” Mr Simshauser said.
Queenslanders can manage their electricity usage by:
- Considering the number of rooms being heated by air-conditioners.
- Turning off computers, TVs and other household appliances in standby mode.
- Turning off your pool pumps and second fridges.
Commercial businesses can manage their electricity usage by:
- Consider the amount of interior and advertising lighting used;
- Turning off water heating systems and urns, except for food and beverage preparation and cleaning; and
- Turning off advertising lighting and any unnecessary exterior lighting.
“By carefully managing electricity use at home and in your workplace, the community can help ensure that power system security is maintained in Queensland,” Mr Simshauser said.