Southern states rely on Qld for winter gas supply

"It is imperative that gas flows from Queensland to the southern states, and that there is enough storage for it," Commissioner Anna Brakey said.

Demand is expected to be high in the third quarters of 2023 and 2024, however the report notes it depends on how much gas producers commit to the Australian market.

The commission described the overall outlook for both winters as "finely balanced".  

It's likely pressure on supply will ease off next year however that depends on several factors including unexpected disasters like floods.

"Weather and electricity market conditions have a strong influence on the amount of gas-fired generation we need in the energy mix, so the demand outlook remains somewhat uncertain," Ms Brakey added.

The commission says the industry is mostly complying with the emergency gas price cap that was introduced at the end of 2022 in response to rising prices.