Giving consumers greater access to their energy data will help foster competition and assist households and businesses to get the most out of the competitive market, the energy industry said today.
The Consumer Data Right (CDR) gives consumers greater access to personal information, as well as the ability to allow businesses to provide safe and secure access to share their data with third parties.
Welcoming the Federal Government's announcement of the rollout of the CDR to the energy sector, the Australian Energy Council's Chief Executive Sarah McNamara said giving consumers more control over who can access their data would encourage innovation and the tailoring of products and services.
"We know that the best way to lower energy costs for households and small businesses is through competitive markets. Enlisting the help of third parties through the CDR will make it easier for customers to find the cheapest deals.
"While there is still a lot of work to be done, energy retailers will be working to ensure that this reform is implemented to benefit customers without imposing additional costs.
"The good news is that there is no need to wait for the finalisation of the CDR to get cheaper prices. Customers can find themselves a better deal today.
"In Victoria, you can upload your consumption data and instantly find the best offer for you by logging onto the Victorian Energy Compare website.
"In the other states, you can log onto the Federal Government's recently updated EnergyMadeEasy website. Simply by uploading a copy of your bill you can find the best deal for your circumstances.
"The AEC looks forward to continuing to work with the Government, the ACCC, and the Data Standards Body to progress this important reform."
About the Australian Energy Council
The Council represents 24 major electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. These businesses collectively generate the overwhelming majority of electricity in Australia and sell gas and electricity to over 10 million homes and businesses.
