Utilities Archives - Consumers' Federation of Australia

1 December , 2023

Single, Trusted Source for Australian Energy Consumers Needed

A national survey of 2,500 household energy consumers found that 48% of households did not recall seeing anything in the media or online in the last 12 months about how to reduce their energy costs or usage. Those who did recall seeing information often found it complex and irrelevant.

The results show that while households are interested in learning about saving on their energy use and bills, their trust is low in the energy market to provide them with good advice.

1 December , 2023

‘Game changer reforms’ for Vulnerable Consumers will Progress

The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has welcomed the Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council’s (ECMC) decision to progress work on a proposed package of Game changer reforms that will deliver significant improvements in outcomes for energy consumers experiencing vulnerability.

Under the comprehensive package, consumers would receive concessions they are entitled to and those in hardship would receive their retailer’s best offer to help them lower their bills.

1 December , 2023

Energy Cost, the Environment and the Importance of Keeping Consumers Informed

Consumers are often overwhelmed by the amount of energy information available to them. They are unsure who to turn to, or where to start. This means most consumers are on ‘first base’ in their energy journey.

24 November , 2023

Energy Consumers Australia Welcomes Announcement of Capacity Investment Scheme, Calls for More Work for Consumers

Original media release from ECA (23/11/2023). Energy Consumers Australia (ECA) CEO Brendan French, quoted in response to the Capacity Investment Scheme: quote Energy Consumers Australia CEO Brendan French: “Energy Consumers Australia welcomes this morning’s announcement which is both an important step in providing reliable supply to consumers and also a continued firm commitment by Federal…

23 November , 2023

Non-Executive Director Position Open at Energy Consumers Australia

ECA is looking for an experienced Non-executive Director with a broad understanding of energy systems. It will be critical they can speak to and represent the long-term interests of energy consumers, in particular residential and small business consumers.
Closing date: 11.59pm AEDT on Sunday 3rd December 2023.

21 November , 2023

National Safety Notice Issued for Recalled LG Solar Batteries

Original media release by the ACCC (20/11/2023). Following a recommendation by the ACCC, the Assistant Treasurer, the Hon. Stephen Jones, has today issued a national safety warning notice to warn consumers of fire risks associated with recalled LG solar lithium-ion batteries which are installed in solar energy systems across the country. The safety warning notice was issued…

17 November , 2023

Nominations Open for EWON Community Director Positions

Original media release from EWON (2/11/2023). The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) is calling for nominations to be one of the five Community Directors on the EWON Board from December 2023. EWON is the independent dispute resolution scheme for NSW electricity and gas customers and some water customers. The Board is responsible for corporate governance, funding, and strategy. …

16 October , 2023

Calls to End Gas Connections and Electrify Households

“We need all three levels of government to come together and develop a national plan for households to go all-electric that provides the information, funding and support people need, and identifies the policy changes that will ensure no one is left behind.”

11 October , 2023

LG Solar Batteries Recalled – Consumers Urged to Check and Switch Off Affected Batteries Immediately

All households with a solar storage system need to urgently check if the system has a recalled LG battery installed and should switch off affected batteries immediately, the ACCC has warned.

When these batteries malfunction there is a serious risk of injury or death due to the affected batteries overheating and causing a fire.

5 October , 2023

AER Highlights Better Outcomes but Continue Challenges

The Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) latest State of the energy market report highlights that the energy system in 2023 experienced fewer shocks and better outcomes than in the preceding year, however many of the vulnerabilities observed in 2022 remain.

The report reveals some improved outcomes in wholesale energy markets with average wholesale electricity prices significantly lower than the record highs seen in 2022. Wholesale gas prices also declined significantly from 2022 but remain high by historical standards.

28 September , 2023

Mandatory Better Bills Guideline to Simplify Energy Bills for Consumers

From 30 September, energy bills will be easier for consumers to understand as energy retailers comply with the new billing obligations in the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) Better Bills Guideline.

Retailers must now include a ‘better offer’ statement on the front page of their bill. This statement must tell the customer if the retailer can offer a better deal, which could include the retailer’s standing offer, and include details of how to switch plans.

22 September , 2023

EnergyAustralia in Court over Alleged Misleading Information

“With electricity prices increasing, and many Australians looking for a better deal, it’s crucial that the information people receive from their energy company is correct and can be relied upon,” ACCC Chair Gina Cass-Gottlieb said.