Greater coordinated and consistent action by jurisdictions, government bodies and retailers to streamline and improve processes is an important step towards helping make it easier for vulnerable consumers to access energy bill support, according to the peak body for energy retailers, the Australian Energy Council.
The comments follow the release of an Australian Energy Market Commission's draft determination on improving the application of consumer concessions.
The AEC's General Manager Retail, Jo De Silva, said "We support efforts to improve the uptake of energy concessions by eligible customers.
"Customers and retailers have a mutual interest in improving outcomes in this space. Concessions are important for vulnerable consumers to help them lower bills and avoid debt. Retailers have a strong incentive to ensure customers are aware of and are receiving entitlements because it can help reduce the risk of bad debts.
"It is also important for jurisdictions, Services Australia and retailers to work more closely to improve processes and ensure customers are well informed on what support is available to them," Ms De Silva said.
The AEMC's determination found no evidence of market failure but identified gaps and process barriers arising from factors such as jurisdictional inconsistencies and the complexity of concession arrangements.
"Retailers stand ready to partner with jurisdictions and government bodies to improve the processes."
About the Australian Energy Council
The Australian Energy Council is the peak industry body for electricity and downstream natural gas businesses operating in the competitive wholesale and retail energy markets. AEC members generate and sell energy to 10 million homes and businesses and are major investors in renewable energy generation. The AEC supports reaching net-zero by 2050 as well as a 55 per cent emissions reduction target by 2035 and is committed to delivering the energy transition for the benefit of consumers.
