Victorians face higher energy prices as transmission line costs soar

Liberal Party Victoria

Victorian families and businesses face further increases in energy prices as a result of the Andrews Government’s cost blow outs of more than 40 per cent to deliver new electricity transmission projects.

KPMG warned the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) there could be “damaging delays” to priority projects. These delays could exacerbate pressure on networks, limit new generation, and drive energy costs for hard working Victorians higher.

This follows recent confirmation by the Victorian Essential Services Commission that energy prices are set to increase by 31.1 per cent for households and 33.2 per cent for small businesses – the largest energy price hikes in the nation.

Shadow Minister for Energy and Resources, David Hodgett, said Daniel Andrews had broken his promise to Victorians that he would reduce power prices.

“We need a clear path to deliver reliable and affordable energy through a practical and achievable plan to reduce emissions,” Mr Hodgett said.

“Victorians can’t expect to pay lower prices as Daniel Andrews promised when transmission infrastructure faces cost blow outs of more than 40 per cent.

“The Andrews Government’s incompetence has left Victoria behind other states, and it is Victorian families and businesses that are paying the price.”

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