WA Town Gas Users Switched to Bottled Supply
ATCO Australia has announced plans to decommission the Albany gas network, leading to a significant transition for local gas users. Approximately 8,000 homes and businesses that currently rely on liquefied petroleum gas from this network will switch to bottled gas over the next three years. This change takes effect in the latter half of this year.
Transition to Bottled Gas Supply
The decision results from exorbitant repair costs associated with the aging gas infrastructure. According to Russell Godsall, ATCO’s Executive General Manager for Gas Operations, about 90% of the 160-kilometre network needs replacement, estimated at over $80 million. This financial burden would significantly raise costs for local users.
Impact on Local Businesses and Residents
Les Palmer, owner of a popular steakhouse in Albany, relies extensively on gas for various kitchen appliances. Palmer expressed his wish to continue using gas but is now exploring alternatives as the network faces shutdown. He mentioned that several gas providers are evaluating space in his restaurant for potential new setups.
- 8,000 local gas users will be affected.
- Switch to bottled gas starts later this year.
- Estimated cost for network upgrades exceeds $80 million.
Palmer noted that shifting entirely to electric appliances would impose astronomical costs, highlighting the widespread concern among local residents and businesses regarding this transition.
Community Response and Government Involvement
City of Albany Mayor Greg Stocks criticized ATCO for not providing ample notice about the infrastructure issues. He noted that earlier communication regarding the aging network could have helped residents prepare for potential changes. Stocks raised questions about how the transition costs would be financed, asserting that ATCO’s decision marks a lack of commitment from corporate entities toward regional Australia.
Government Support for Transition
Energy Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson expressed disappointment in ATCO’s decision and assured that the government would assist affected customers during the transition. She affirmed the commitment to providing reliable energy supplies throughout this process.
Premier Roger Cook acknowledged similarities with a previous situation in Esperance, where local gas networks were also decommissioned due to the high cost of maintenance. He reassured Albany residents that no immediate action is required on their part, as the transition will be gradual.
Future Collaborations
ATCO plans to work closely with the local Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) industry and government officials to formulate a detailed plan for the decommissioning process. Godsall noted that effective collaboration could streamline the transition to bottled gas and minimize disruptions for Albany residents.
