Power Politics
![Three panels of 'alternative energy': a radio jockey getting mad, a spinning wind turbine with a bullseye target in the centre, and a blue Peter Dutton. Three panels of 'alternative energy': a radio jockey getting mad, a spinning wind turbine with a bullseye target in the centre, and a blue Peter Dutton.](/sites/default/files/2024-10/2022_th09_04_power-politics_katauskas.jpg)
Fiona Katauskas
An unusually cold start to winter, coupled with the Russian invasion of Ukraine and ageing local coal power plants, combined to create a surge in energy prices and the threat of blackouts in Victoria and South Australia. The Australian Energy Market Operator was forced to intervene to suspend wholesale electricity prices and ensure a reliable power supply.