Energy
Media and commentary related to our work to protect consumer rights and ensure everyone in our community can access the affordable, efficient and clean energy they need.
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Good engagement brings lower gas charges for NSW households
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre welcomes the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) announcement that NSW households and small businesses will pay less to have their gas delivered over the next 5 years. The AER on Friday made its final determination on Jemena Gas Network’s (JGN) access and pricing arrangement for 2020-25, signalling a drop in residential…
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NSW energy relief welcome for those struggling during COVID-19
PIAC welcomes the New South Wales Government’s announcement of a new energy relief package for households suffering financial hardship during the COVID-19 crisis. The NSW energy minister, Matt Kean, today announced a $30 million expansion of the Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) program, an increase in the maximum value of EAPA vouchers households can receive,…
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NSW solar battery loan scheme a win for households
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre welcomes the New South Wales government’s announcement of a pilot solar battery loan scheme for households in the Hunter region. Under the scheme eligible Hunter home owners will be able to access interest-free loans for battery and solar-battery systems. ‘Most people want lower power bills and sustainable energy sources, and…
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Wholesale demand response delayed, better outcomes for consumers necessary
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre, Total Environment Centre and The Australia Institute welcome the Australian Energy Market Commission’s (the Commission) announcement that it will introduce wholesale demand response earlier than planned, but say more work is urgently needed to get the best outcome for households. The Commission has today announced it will postpone a final…
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Call to fast-track ‘demand response’ to stabilise energy supply
‘Big energy users have called for new “demand response” rules to be fast-tracked and extended by allowing electricity to be sold into the wholesale market from both businesses and households as the threat of summer blackouts looms on the east coast…’
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New demand response rule to erode market power of generator cartel
‘Australia is about to take another significant step towards breaking the market power of the country’s electricity generation cartel – and prepare for a renewables-dominated grid – with the main rule maker finally allowing demand response to enter the wholesale electricity market.’