The Western Australian government and the City of Albany have committed to working together to ensure reliable energy supplies for customers affected by the decommissioning of Albany’s reticulated gas network.
Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson confirmed the state government would collaborate closely with the City of Albany, industry groups, and energy providers to support residents and businesses as the transition process begins.
The Department of Energy and Economic Diversification will convene the first meeting of the Albany Gas Network Decommissioning Working Group to hear community concerns and examine all available options for alternative energy supplies.
The working group will bring together representatives from the City of Albany, the Albany Chamber of Commerce, key government agencies including Education and Health, Synergy, Western Power, ATCO, Supagas, local trades associations, and electrical goods retailers.
ATCO recently announced plans to decommission its Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) network, which currently services around 8,000 business and residential customers across the city.
The process is expected to begin in the second half of this year and take at least three years to complete.
Customers are not required to take any immediate action.
In a meeting earlier this week, Minister Sanderson and Albany Mayor Greg Stocks agreed to coordinate local and state efforts to ensure the community is supported throughout the transition.
“I want to reassure the Albany community there is no immediate impact on customers, and no immediate action is required,” said Minister Sanderson.
“The state government will work with energy providers and regulators to ensure that households and businesses affected by this decision continue to have access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy options.
“We want to achieve the best possible outcome for Albany.”
The working group’s initial focus will be on assessing options that are technically feasible and cost-effective while maintaining community confidence and safety.
Potential alternatives include electricity upgrades and other energy solutions that align with both local needs and the state’s broader decarbonisation strategy.
Mayor Stocks said community engagement and clear communication would be key priorities as the decommissioning progresses.
“We know this news will be unsettling for many people in our community, and I want to reassure residents and businesses that they are not facing this situation alone,” said Stocks.
“The City of Albany is working closely with the state government to ensure the voices of our community are heard and that any solutions put forward are practical, fair and focused on supporting those who will be impacted.
“Efforts are focused on finding options that are viable, effective and feasible, with community needs front of mind.”
The partnership between the WA government and the City of Albany aims to ensure a smooth transition for affected customers while maintaining energy reliability and affordability across the region.
