PIAC responded to IPART’s issues paper for its Review of retailers’ meter installation practices in NSW. PIAC argued that retailers are currently not providing an acceptable level of metering service and noted that this is experienced in various ways, including:
- Installation delays;
- Poor communication; and
- Inadequate information about the services provided by a smart meter.
PIAC supported this argument with a series of case studies provided by the Alternative Technology Association, a national not-for-profit that that for people to live sustainably in their homes and communities.
PIAC recommended that IPART:
- Investigate and addressed both disclosed and undisclosed delays in meter installation;
- Introduce a ‘metering provider of last resort’ scheme to ensure equitable access to digital metering for all NSW consumers, including those in regional and remote NSW; and
- Investigate whether the full range of potential services from digital meters are being offered and whether consumers needs and expectations of these services are being met.
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