A pipeline failure and explosion at the Varanus Island gas processing plant in the north of the state in early June resulted in total loss of supply from the source.

At about 350 terajoules a day, it represents 30pc of WA's gas supply.

Gas is the principal energy source in the state and a major fuel used in electricity generation.

While forklifts and hot water systems are directly affected by shortages in liquefied petroleum gas, and power cuts affect wineries, it is the dwindling supply of liquefied carbon dioxide used for gassing tanks and bottles that is causing the most concern in the wine industry.

CO2 is a byproduct of ammonia production. Ammonia processing plants are powered by gas and are unable to continue operating until gas supplies have been restored – something that is not expected to happen in the short term.

* For the full report, visit GrapeGrowers & Vignerons.