Up to 30 government backbenchers have raised concerns about sky-rocketing power prices.

The so-called ‘Monash Forum’ is pushing for the construction of a new $4 billion coal-fired power plant as a way to shore-up the nation’s energy grid.

Liberal Senator Eric Abetz tells Ben Fordham it should come as “no surprise”.

“It’s an informal group… we discuss how we can keep energy prices down.

“Clearly coal has to be part of the equation.

“Every now and again you have to have a look at what is the potential for the government to assist in a space where the market has failed.”

Listen to the full interview below