Tasmanians will have a chance to have their say on the State’s energy future.

An Issues Paper currently being developed by members of the new Energy Working Group will be released for public comment in the next few months.

The Working Group, chaired by Rhys Edwards, met for the second time in Hobart this week.

The Group is providing the Government with advice, ideas, and views on key aspects of energy supply and consumption in Tasmania.

This information will assist and inform the development of the Tasmanian Energy Strategy.

The strategy will identify ways energy can be used as a key economic driver for Tasmania.

The membership represents a range of consumer interests, from major industrials, commercial and small business, and the residential and welfare sectors.

There will also be opportunity for broader public consultation in the development of the Strategy, with an Issues Paper expected to be released for public comment in August/September

This is an important first step in our push to strengthen Tasmania’s reputation of having a competitive advantage in the delivery of efficient, reliable and affordable energy for the benefit for all Tasmanians.

We want Tasmania to have a robust energy system for the future that meets the needs of consumers, with the development of a comprehensive Tasmanian Energy Strategy.

We must aim to deliver electricity to Tasmanian households and businesses at prices that are amongst the lowest in the nation. We will do this by introducing effective competition and choice, and through the prudent management of our energy businesses.

This will help provide relief to consumers and help grow the economy, attract new investment, retain industry and secure jobs.

We are on track to ensure the development of the Tasmanian Energy Strategy will occur by the end of this year.

Membership of the Energy Working Group:

• Rhys Edwards (Chair)
• Ray Mostogl (representing the Tasmanian Minerals and Energy Council)
• Marc White (expert in medium and small business and residential energy users)
• Greg Zooeff (Nyrstar and the Big Picture Group)
• Tony Reidy (Tasmanian Council of Social Service)

Jan Davis (Tasmanian Farmers and Graziers Association)
Matthew Groom, Minister for Energy