Energy Explained: What is load shedding?

11 July 2022

Our ‘Energy Explained’ series breaks down what you need to know about little-known aspects of the energy system. Today, we explore load shedding.

With energy reliability front and centre of public debate in recent times, you might have heard the term ‘load shedding’…but what does load shedding actually mean?

According to the Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO), who manage the National Electricity Market (NEM) in Australia, load shedding is the controlled reduction of electricity supply to parts of the power system servicing homes and businesses to protect system security and mitigate damage to infrastructure.

In simple terms, this usually means rolling blackouts coordinated across different areas where there isn't enough electricity supply to meet demand. In the event of a load shedding situation, customers would experience an unplanned electricity outage which could potentially last several hours.

Any load shedding events are mandated by AEMO, and enacted by electricity distributors such as Jemena. Load shedding is extremely rare and is a last resort response to bring the energy system back into balance.

Want to learn more about how we prepare to deliver reliable electricity supplies to homes across Melbourne’s north west? Visit https://jemena.com.au/electricity/safety