What is the so-called spot market, and what does this AEMO freeze mean for energy consumers?
Australia's current energy crisis has been going on for years, but reached a new height of drama this week with an unprecedented move by national regulators.
Amid warnings of possible blackouts in the eastern states, Energy Market Operator Australia took steps to suspend the national electricity spot market for the first time.
In announcing the move, AEMO chief Daniel Westerman said the system had become impossible to operate, and that its suspension would ensure a reliable and safe supply.
