Gas Producers Confirm There Is Plenty of Gas. Now It’s Time To Sell It At Fair & Reasonable Prices.
Emily Wood | September 20, 2023
The latest Interim Gas Report released by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) provides reassurance to Australian energy users that there is gas available to meet domestic needs, said leading advocate for large commercial and industrial (C&I) energy users, the Energy Users’ Association of Australia (EUAA).
“It does bring some relief to see the latest figures in the ACCC Interim Gas Report that shows there is enough gas for domestic use,” said EUAA Chief Executive Officer, Mr Andrew Richards. “We look forward to fair and reasonable offers being made to energy users seeking contracts.”
Gas is a critical input into many essential goods produced by large C&I in Australia such as bricks, steel, food, packaging and glass. For these industries, gas is essential. There is no easy switch to electricity to manufacture their products and in many cases, there are no commercially viable alternatives available at this time. So, while they are looking for opportunities to reduce emissions, investing in research to find alternatives, and upgrading equipment where practical, gas remains an essential fuel for their operations.
Recently, the government finalised the Mandatory Gas Code of Conduct that was developed in consultation with producers, retailers and energy users and will be managed by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) who will ensure domestic gas users get a fair deal.
“The necessary legislative amendments to bring the Mandatory Gas Code of Conduct into force are yet to pass the Senate. We implore Senators to vote in favour of the gas code to help protect millions of Australian families and business and ensure they get a fair deal from the gas industry,” said Mr Richards.
“ACCC data shows that domestic gas users consume less than 20% of the gas industry’s annual production, so any small concessions producers make under the code of conduct are likely to have minimal impact on them.”
Mr Richards added, “We look forward to large producers’ applications to the Government for exemptions under the price provisions of the Gas code to reflect this supply situation.”
– ends –
The EUAA is the peak body representing Australian industrial and commercial energy users. EUAA membership covers a broad cross section of the Australian economy including significant retail, manufacturing and materials processing industries. Combined EUAA members employ over one million Australians, pay annual energy bills in the many billions of dollars and support the development of a lasting national energy and climate change plan that puts downward pressure on electricity and gas costs.
Media Contact: Emily Wood 0421 042 121
