The Australian Energy Council (AEC), the peak body for energy generators and retailers, acknowledged the Victorian Government's decision today to introduce a Midday Power Saver offer.
Australian Energy Council Chief Executive, Louisa Kinnear, said that the new offer mirrored many of the elements of the Commonwealth Government's Solar Sharer Offer, and while free power in the middle of the day is an attractive prospect, customers need to ensure they are able to shift their consumption away from peak periods to see any benefits.
"We welcome efforts by the Victorian Government to harmonise this offer to that available in other jurisdictions. Implementation by 1 October 2026 will be a challenge to deliver, but is a more workable timeframe than 1 July."
Ms Kinnear said the offer may benefit customers who are able to shift their energy use into the free daytime period, but for many households, the savings will be limited.
"It is important to note that this offer, like the Australian Energy Regulator's Solar Sharer Offer, means consumers will pay higher prices outside the free period to cover the retailer's cost of supply.
"Customers will only benefit if they can shift their usage away from peak periods to the middle of the day. Those who cannot should not opt into the new offer."
The AEC strongly believes that for regulated offers with free periods to work effectively and deliver the most material customer benefits, further reform to network tariffs is required to better reflect how consumers use the system and deliver fairer outcomes for both customers and retailers.
"We will continue to engage with the Victorian Government and the Essential Services Commission on a solution that works for consumers and retailers alike," Ms Kinnear said.
About the Australian Energy Council
The Australian Energy Council (AEC) is the peak body for energy retailers and generators operating in competitive markets.
Our members generate and sell energy to over 10 million homes and businesses and are committed to delivering a reliable, affordable and decarbonised energy system for consumers.
The AEC supports net zero by 2050 and recognises the electricity sector's role in reducing Australia's emissions. Our members are major investors in renewables, firming and storage technologies that are critical to ensuring customers continue to receive reliable and sustainable energy supply as we navigate the energy transition.
