Tas govt backs diesel energy plan

Tasmania's hydro dam levels continue to fall faster than expected but with a diesel-powered fall-back plan, the state government insists there is no risk of an energy shortage.

Low rainfall has seen water storage drop to 13.6 per cent in dams used for hydro power generation and with a damaged and inoperative Bass Strait electricity cable, Energy Minister Matthew Groom was forced to provide reassurances in parliament on Tuesday.

"The energy supply plan is about ensuring that we can continue to meet Tasmania's energy requirements, that's why we brought in the diesel (generators).

"I know people don't like it, I know it's expensive but we've got no choice," the minister said.