'Biggest energy problem in 50 years,' according to the East Coast cold wave, which has sparked fears about rising gas prices

A cold snap on Australia's east coast and a coal shortfall at the country's largest power station is threatening to exacerbate the country's greatest energy crisis in decades, prompting manufacturers and consumer organisations to call on the Albanese government to intervene to reduce spiralling power rates.

This week's anticipated surge in wholesale gas prices of more than 50 times typical levels was prompted by freez....