The Victorian Government has launched a new energy policy centre to help drive electricity reform.
The Victorian Energy Policy Centre (VEPC) is a collaboration with Victoria University, which will contribute $480,000 towards the centre.
Minister for Energy Lily D’Ambrosio said the government would contribute $1.75 million to establish the centre, which will undertake research into the unique energy policy challenges Australia is facing.
“The energy debate is often dominated by vested interests – what we need is more independent, credible voices,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“This centre will combine rigorous research and analysis, with a clear focus on policies that put Victorian energy customers first.”
The centre will be independent of government but its research will be one of many inputs into decision-making.
It will focus on consumer protections, market trends and development of the energy industry.
Research is already underway and will be ongoing for the next two years.