Electricity demand peaks as heatwave continues

Electricity demand has reached its highest point since the heatwave preceding the Black Saturday bushfires in 2009, the Energy Supply Association of Australia (esaa) has reported.

esaa says sustained high temperatures for the rest of the week could see new records set for peak electricity demand in Victoria and South Australia.

Electricity demand in Victoria and South Australia is highest on weekdays, usually at the end of a run of three or more hot days, esaa Chief Executive Matthew Warren says.

On 14 January, the maximum demand for electricity peaked at 10,151 MW in Victoria and 3046 in South Australia. These are the highest peaks in electricity demand since 29 January 2009 in Victoria (10,415 MW) and 31 January 2011 in South Australia (3385 MW).

“Milder summer weather in those states over the last three years has meant that they have been spared these 40-degree-plus heatwaves,” Warren said.

“The hot weather is back this summer. Even with more solar panels around now, the increased demand from more widespread use of air conditioners means record electricity demand this week is a real possibility.”

Recent increases in energy bills has paid for investment that ensures sufficient network reliability and capacity to cope with these sorts of weather events, Warren said.

“The demise of rising summer peak loads in Australia has been greatly exaggerated,” Warren said. “Recent investment in electricity networks has made sure there is reliable supply at these times when people need it the most. Now we appreciate it is a prudent investment.”

The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) predicts that, based on current weather forecasts, electricity demand is expected to increase tomorrow (16 January) in both states. The record peak in Victoria came at the end of a five-day heatwave that saw temperatures in Melbourne reach 45°C.

Despite the rapid take-up of rooftop PV systems in recent years, which can reduce demand during sunny days, South Australia is expected to see its highest demand since 2010-11.