Peak energy body denies advising hospitals to power down

One of Australia’s leading energy market operators has denied advising Melbourne hospitals to conserve power while also confirming some businesses are paid to switch off when the network becomes strained.

On Friday The Alfred hospital confirmed that it was reducing the “use of electricity that is not directly needed for patient care” following advice provided by the AEMO.

Executive GM of Public Affairs at AEMO, the Australian Energy Market Operator, Joe Adamo denied this advice was given.

“That’s just not true,” he told Neil Mitchell.

“Any decision that the hospital was an independent decision.”

Mr Adamo also confirmed some businesses are paid to conserve power to relieve strain on the network.

“That’s part of what the agreement would be, yes,” he said.

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