Energy and water
Media and commentary related to our work to protect and advance consumer protections for essential services, and accelerate a just transition to net zero.
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New water prices penalise water savers, not a long-term solution
PIAC is concerned recently announced changes to the way water is priced for Sydney and Hunter region households do not encourage sustainable long-term water use and planning, and will leave households that use less water with higher water bills. On Tuesday, the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Authority (IPART) announced the introduction of new water…
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Major consumer-led energy reform finalised
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre, the Australia Institute, and Total Environment Centre today welcomed a ‘demand response’ reform of Australia’s electricity market that will improve reliability and reduce prices for consumers. The groups also welcome the AEMC’s decision to maintain the early, 2021 implementation date for the rule which they had advocated for. The three…
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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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Community groups call for energy hardship relief package as household energy bills jump
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre joins a coalition of leading consumer and community organisations to call for immediate Commonwealth Government funding and stronger commitments by energy businesses so people can afford their energy bills during the COVID-19 social, economic and health crisis. In a joint statement released today, the groups call on the Government to…
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Energy retailers and government must act to protect vulnerable people
The Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) welcomes the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) announcement of its expectations of energy retailers to ensure people can afford their energy bills and stay safe and healthy in their homes during the COVID-19 crisis. The AER has outlined its expectations of the support that energy retailers should provide their customers:…