A bitter dispute between the Electrical Trades Union (ETU) and Transgrid, the owner of New South Wales’ high voltage power lines, is causing ripple effects across the electricity market, leading to claims of stranded generators and increased wholesale prices.
Matt Murphy, ETU’s national industry coordinator, revealed that numerous generators, including units at the Eraring coal-fired power plant and several renewable energy projects awaiting grid connection, have been affected by recent industrial actions. Despite some units at Eraring being restored to service, the conflict continues to jeopardize critical projects like the Waratah Super Battery, intended to bolster the state’s electricity system amidst coal retirements.
According to Murphy, ongoing disputes over pay increases and superannuation contributions have led workers to enforce bans on connecting new generators or reinstating offline units, exacerbating network degradation and maintenance issues statewide.
Transgrid, while acknowledging the impacts on customers, remains committed to finding a resolution that minimizes disruption and undue financial strain on energy consumers. The company has attempted to mitigate delays caused by the dispute, although challenges persist in fully resolving operational setbacks.
The ETU and Transgrid are set to negotiate further this month, with the outcome expected to significantly influence the future stability of New South Wales’ electricity supply and pricing dynamics.
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