Energy producers and users have eagerly seized on the Finkel Review on energy security as a potential means to end the gridlock in investment that has paralysed the sector and contributed to soaring prices that are hurting businesses.

Reflecting industry's frustration with years of political bickering on climate and energy policy, Origin Energy chief executive Frank Calabria said the company hoped it would "pave the way for a more coordinated national approach to energy and climate policy".