Like many other people in NSW on Wednesday afternoon, I dutifully followed Premier Chris Minns’ instructions to avoid using my dishwasher or washing machine between 3pm and 8pm. OK, I wasn’t quite so obedient about turning off the air conditioning.

Energy crisis averted – just. There were no blackouts for NSW. By 6.30pm the energy regulator confirmed electricity reliability had significantly improved. Cooler weather expected in the coming days should provide relief – and psychological consolation to those in charge of a struggling system.