- Work begins on transition after ATCO announces gas network decommissioning
- Working group to be convened to discuss transition from Liquified Petroleum Gas network
- Cook Government and City of Albany commit to working together to support customers
The Cook Government and the City of Albany will work together to ensure reliable energy supplies are available to customers affected by the decommissioning of the city's gas network.
The Department of Energy and Economic Diversification will convene the first meeting of the Albany Gas Network Decommissioning Working Group to hear concerns and examine all options for energy supplies.
It will include representatives from the City of Albany, key business groups including the Albany Chamber of Commerce, government departments and agencies including Education and Health, Synergy, Western Power, ATCO, Supagas, local trades groups, and electrical goods retailers.
ATCO is decommissioning its reticulated gas network, which services about 8000 business and residential customers with Liquified Petroleum Gas.
Decommissioning will start in the second half of this year and take at least three years.
Customers do not have to take any immediate action.
Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has discussed the transition with Albany Mayor Greg Stocks.
The Minister and Mr Stocks agreed that the government and the city would work closely to ensure households and businesses affected by the ATCO decision will be supported.
Efforts will focus on options that are viable, effective, and feasible, with community needs front of mind.
ATCO customers can get more information at atco.com.au and people can go to the Energy Policy WA website to sign up for updates.
As stated by Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"I want to reassure the Albany community there is no immediate impact on customers, and no immediate action is required.
"The State Government will work with energy providers and regulators to ensure that households and businesses affected by this decision continue to have access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy options.
"We want to achieve the best possible outcome for Albany."
Comments attributed to Albany Mayor Greg Stocks:
"We know this news will be unsettling for many people in our community, and I want to reassure residents and businesses that they are not facing this situation alone.
"The City of Albany is working closely with the State Government to ensure the voices of our community are heard and that any solutions put forward are practical, fair and focused on supporting those who will be impacted.
"Efforts are focused on finding options that are viable, effective and feasible, with community needs front of mind.
