Gas demand has surged while the weather conditions have hampered wind and solar power output in Australia.SYDNEY — Australia's east is facing a gas shortage after a cold snap drove up demand for heating and power while supply dipped due to an extended outage at the region's main gas plant, the country's energy market operator said.
The Australian Energy Market Operator , in a notice issued late on June 19, warned of heightened risks of gas supply shortfalls during Australia's winter months. Gas demand has surged for power generation at the same time as heating while the weather conditions have hampered wind and solar power output, the market operator said.
Australia considers gas a critical element in its transition to cleaner energy as the country moves rapidly away from its dependence on coal-fired power stations, and has been reaching new gas deals to plug the gaps in long-term supply.