Calls to transition to renewable energy have grown after several states on Australia's east coast were put at risk of blackouts following several days of market volatility.
In an unprecedented move, the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) last week seized control of the east coast energy market for the first time in its history after surging power prices prompted generators to reduce their output.
The AEMO's market intervention has prompted fresh calls from energy experts to transition to renewable sources of energy such as solar.
Head of Batteries at Smart Energy Joel Power said the global energy crisis has exposed Australia's fossil fuel dependency.
"It's shown how exposed our fossil fuel market is to global shakes and if we want to be less exposed to things like that, then harnessing the vast wealth of renewable energy potential out there in Australia needs to be our number one priority," he said.
Rising costs prompt calls for solar
In recent months, rising gas and electricity bills have added pressure to households already grappling with cost of living hikes on fuel and groceries.
Mr Power called on Australians to invest in solar panels to save money and take control over their power bills.
"Unfortunately, with what's happening in the national electricity market, the consumer is the one that's going to have to pay for it in the end, prices will rise as they trickle down and people will have much higher electricity bills," he said.
"The best way to insulate yourself from those rising electricity bills is to reduce your exposure by getting a solar and battery system."
Businesses feeling the pinch
Many businesses have felt the full impact of the energy crisis as rising power costs add to the pain already caused by inflation.
Logan Regional Chamber of Commerce President Chyerl Pridham said rising power costs have added fuel to a business climate that is struggling to keep up with rising costs.
"It's not just power, it's everything right across the board at the moment and we need to stop beating up our small business owners when they have to increase their prices," she said.
Ms Pridham said she was interested to see what support would be handed to businesses who are struggling to keep up.
"There has been a number of business grants out there but not in relation to power at this point in time," she said.
Mr Power said the demand for solar has soared recently as people look to cut their bills.
"We've seen almost a 100% increase in our inquiries and orders, and a lot of our existing customers are coming back asking for a battery," he said.
"Recent events have been a real tipping point for people to invest in battery storage technology."
