The Office of the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) has issued advice to energy consumers on how to manage the financial impact of rising energy costs.
The Office said the Australian Energy Regulator’s (AER) recent announcement that energy bills were set to rise by up to 18.3 per cent in NSW would be of some concern for many customers.
“A range of global and national factors have pushed energy prices upward and impacted the AER’s decision to raise the Default Market Offer (DMO),” EWON said.
“The war in Ukraine has increased coal and gas prices around the world, and recent extreme weather events in NSW and Queensland have increased electricity demand and pressure on coal supplies,” it said.
“Together with broader concerns about the rising cost of living, the changes to the DMO could have a significant financial impact on many customers.”
The Office said people worried about increases to their energy bill should contact their retailer to discuss options for assistance.
It said retailers were legally required to help households who were struggling to pay their bills by offering repayment plans and hardship assistance.
“Compare energy plans and find the best one for you using the free Energy Made Easy comparison tool,” the Office said.
“Check if you’re eligible for Energy Accounts Payment Assistance (EAPA) vouchers by visiting the Service NSW website.”
It said the EAPA limit increased last week (30 May) from $300 to $400 per quarter for energy or gas to help eligible NSW households pay their energy bills.
The EWON also advised people to read its factsheet on saving energy and water around the home.
Its two-page factsheet on rebates, assistance and payment plans can be accessed at this PS News link, its two-page factsheet on saving energy and water around the home at this link, and its Energy Made Easy website at this link.
