Energy industry urges households to seek out better deals

The energy industry has urged Victorian households to seek out better electricity deals by comparing market offers via independent websites like Victoria’s Energy Compare.

Commenting on the Victorian Government’s announcement that it would provide a $50 bill bonus to householders to encourage them to use the comparison website, the Australian Energy Council’s General Manager, Sarah McNamara said active consumers could save hundreds of dollars by shopping around.

“Victoria has a very competitive electricity market with more than 20 retailers offering deals.  Like any consumer marketplace, there are really substantial savings available for people prepared to shop around.

“Websites like Energy Compare help consumers decide which offers suit them best, based on their current circumstances and likely electricity use.

“It’s relatively easy to do and it will help you establish the full cost of each offer from different retailers, with and without discounts.”

Ms McNamara said that electricity retailers were also continuing to work with the Victorian Government on measures that make it easier for consumers to engage with the retail market and find great deals.

“The energy industry has – and continues to – work with Victoria’s Essential Services Commission, as well as the Australian Energy Regulator and governments to find ways to improve things like hardship support for customers, simplification of energy price information and ways to compare different offers.”

About the Australian Energy Council

The Council represents 21 major electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. These businesses collectively generate the overwhelming majority of electricity in Australia and sell gas and electricity to over 10 million homes and businesses.