Why Does this Matter?
The cost of basic necessities such as electricity affect all South Australians – especially those on low incomes. These essential services represent bills that must be paid, for a cost that can’t be avoided.
As a result, people on income support are more likely to fall into debt. They can be forced into difficult decisions such as: keep the lights on, or miss meals?
It is vital that power is affordable and accessible for all. South Australians currently have little choice around the adoption of smart meters and their associated time-of-use tariffs.
Other measures such as emergency payment schemes and fairer concessions will help. So will requiring providers to conduct face-to-face negotiations with consumers before taking actions such as cutting power.
A simple way to reduce rising energy bills is to improve the energy efficiency of rental homes. Homes that lack energy efficiency cost considerably more to heat and cool as the property does not retain temperature.
Renters rely on their landlord to make their properties more efficient. Improving energy efficiency in rentals has benefits for all: tenants reduce their costs and increase their wellbeing, landlords improve their property, the electricity grid is under less pressure, and the environment benefits through reduced emissions.
South Australians on low incomes should not pay too much for redundant power sources like gas as Australia transitions towards Net Zero. Having more efficient electrical appliances must be affordable for all.
What does SACOSS Want?
SACOSS wants to improve the energy efficiency of housing for people on low incomes and to support those struggling with energy debt.
Knock before you Disconnect
Although our goal is no disconnection for non-payment, we encourage ‘Knock before you disconnect’ programs that require personal face-to-face contact before someone can be cut off.
Smart meters and time-of-use tariffs
Give consumers the choice between time-of-use tariff or a flat-rate tariff if they are put on to a smart meter. More broadly, better education around smart meters and their associated time-of-use tariffs is needed so consumers can make more informed decisions.
No New Gas Connections
New residential estates are including terms in sale contracts mandating gas connection. This locks in expensive and emissions-heavy energy. These agreements should be made void.
Minimum efficiency standards
Genuine harm can be caused by living in a home that is not energy efficient. Poor energy efficiency in properties results in crippling bills, discomfort, and potential health problems.
Mandatory disclosure
South Australians should have the right to know how expensive it will be to power their home before they move into it.
Support that meets consumer needs
With SA experiencing high levels of energy debt and disconnection, we need urgent reform to national energy consumer protection frameworks to make sure all SA households are getting the supports they need to pay their bills and stay connected to their energy supply. Energy retailers must comply with their legal obligations to offer early and effective supports for households struggling to pay the bills.
Systems advocacy
SACOSS keeps appraised of all the developments in the way energy is managed by government and providers. We represent the interests of people experiencing disadvantage by meeting with the relevant parties and writing regular submissions, including an extensive annual briefing to the Minister. Our latest annual briefing is here.
ROUNDTABLE NETWORK
The Roundtable Network of Consumer Advocates on Energy is an informal network of energy consumer advocates co-ordinated by SACOSS. The Roundtable Network’s focus is on equitable access to energy that is affordable, dependable and environmentally sustainable.
ENERGY Publications
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