The Nationals’ Member for Morwell, Martin Cameron, has urged the operator of Yallourn Power Station to keep the plant running beyond its proposed closure date, citing grave concerns about Victoria’s electricity supply if it shuts as scheduled in 2028.
In a letter to Energy Australia, Mr Cameron outlined his concerns about plans to close Yallourn in just two years’ time, and the potentially disastrous impacts on baseload power supply and local jobs.
“Energy forecasts by AEMO, the Victorian Auditor-General and the wider energy sector indicate we are not ready for the plant to close,” he said.
“I am gravely concerned about Victoria’ electricity supply, and the impact on jobs in the Latrobe Valley if Yallourn shuts in 2028 as planned.
“On behalf of my community, I have formally requested Energy Australia review the decision to shut in 2028 and keeps Yallourn operating until sufficient alternative supply is available and replacement jobs can be secured in the Latrobe Valley.
“I’m aware of Energy Australia’s concerns about the physical status of the plant and that it is reaching the end of its life, and I’m keen to explore how the plant could be managed to operate beyond 2028.
“It’s clear the state government has a crucial role to play in extending the life of Yallourn, and I’m open to hearing about what’s required to keep the power station operating and – most importantly – keep the lights on.
“Yallourn generates about 20 per cent of Victoria’s electricity power each day, and at the current rate of construction renewables absolutely will not create enough baseload power to account for that loss by 2028.
“The loss of Yallourn’s generation without sufficient alternative supply also means power bills will skyrocket and Victorians already doing it tough with the cost of living will be in a world of hurt.
“I’ve formally requested a meeting with Energy Australia to discuss what is needed to keep Yallourn operating beyond 2028 – because our energy security depends on it.”
