Victoria’s revived State Electricity Commission (SEC) has launched its retail operations, supplying 100 per cent renewable energy to more than 4,000 public sites across the state as of 1 July.
From traffic lights to trams, schools to zoos, the SEC is now delivering clean electricity to essential infrastructure and services, including high-profile locations like Docklands Studios Melbourne.
Minister for the State Electricity Commission Lily D’Ambrosio marked the milestone with a visit to the Docklands site, where the SEC’s renewable power is already delivering both environmental and commercial value.
“The SEC is now powering Victoria’s public services and soon it will open up to Victorian businesses looking to benefit from cheap renewable electricity too, with all returns being reinvested back into Victoria,” the Minister said.
The SEC’s retail electricity will be sourced from its own renewable projects and from Victorian Renewable Energy Auction contracts. These include Berrybank and Dundonnell wind farms, and Cohuna, Winton and Bulgana solar and hybrid power hubs.
Later in 2025, the SEC plans to expand its offering to commercial and industrial customers. It aims to fill a market gap by providing competitive 100 per cent renewable supply options to medium and large businesses not currently served by existing retailers.
In addition to retail services, the SEC will offer demand management and behind-the-meter solutions to help businesses lower consumption, cut costs and reduce emissions.
SEC CEO Chris Miller said the return to retailing marks a new chapter.
“From 1 July, the SEC begins a new chapter as an electricity retailer, powering approximately five percent of Victoria’s electricity market,” he said.
“This gives us a strong base to expand our offering to Victorian businesses so that they can transition to renewable energy, reduce reliance on the grid and meet their carbon reduction goals.”
The move is also a win for Victoria’s screen industry, which is facing increased global scrutiny on sustainability credentials. Docklands Studios Melbourne Chair Louisa Coppel said the SEC’s renewable energy supply strengthens the studio’s international competitiveness.
“Our industry landscape is rapidly evolving, with streamers, studios and producers increasingly expecting their partners to align with their sustainability goals. This move by the SEC to supply a 100 per cent renewable electricity product helps keep Docklands Studios Melbourne globally competitive,” she said.
“By powering Docklands Studios Melbourne with 100 percent renewable energy, we’re not only cutting emissions – we’re strengthening Victoria’s global reputation as a sustainable, world-class destination for film and television production,” said Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks.