The Australian Government is closely monitoring the energy situation in Victoria where many have been affected by power outages.

We understand the frustration of the many Victorian families and businesses who are without power.

Action taken by the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) has been targeted to maintain electricity supply and support the grid as Victoria deals with extreme weather conditions, high demand and reduced supply.

The Australian Government thanks AEMO for the job it has done managing a difficult situation in collaboration with the wider energy industry.

The conditions experienced over the last two weeks across the National Electricity Market (NEM) reinforce the need for investment in reliable 24/7 generation and the Retailer Reliability Obligation.

That is why the Government is backing in new reliable generation investment through its Underwriting New Generation Investments program which has had strong responses to its Registration of Interest process that closed on 23 January.

The Government will carefully consider all proposals and will have more to say once we have considered all the submissions and feedback received during this process.

For further information visit: www.environment.gov.au/energy/underwritingnewgeneration