SEC logo
About

History of SEC

The original State Electricity Commission of Victoria started in 1918 when the Victorian Government appointed ‘electricity commissioners’ responsible for the generation and distribution of electricity throughout the state.

Their main task was to tap the vast brown coal reserves of the Latrobe Valley for electricity generation, freeing Victoria from its reliance on imported fuel.

The new SEC will free Victoria from its reliance on emissions-intensive coal, accelerating delivery of affordable, reliable, renewable energy.

Why do we need SEC

Australia’s energy sector is transforming. As ageing coal-fired power stations close, we need to transition to renewable energy. Victoria’s electricity system has relied heavily on coal, which increases our carbon emissions and has threatened the stability of our power supply.

SEC will invest in the industry to rapidly transform the sector. The transition to renewable energy will create thousands of jobs, bring billions in private investment and help Victoria achieve its nation leading renewable energy targets.

Timeline infographic

View the timeline in full screen

Latest news:

SEC empowering Victorian businesses with new renewable energy products

04 June 2026

SEC is helping Victorian businesses take control of their energy costs and reduce emissions via a suite of new renewable energy products launched today.

Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub

Melton youth to benefit from $2.5 million renewable energy fund

27 May 2026

Young people in Melton and surrounding areas will soon be able to benefit from new programs to gain skills and further education thanks to SEC and GreenPoint Energy’s $2.5 million Melbourne Renewable Energy Hub (MREH) Community Benefit Fund.

A practical switch delivers lower energy bills and a more comfortable home

26 May 2026

The Ziino household has significantly reduced their household energy bills over the past year after switching their Coburg home to electric, installing solar panels, batteries and efficient appliances.

Michael standing next to his new car

Driven by change: How one EV purchase sparked an electric home

26 May 2026

For Michael Cleef, the journey to electrification didn’t start with the house — it started with the car.