Rising energy prices highlight need for action

A recent suggestion from an independent advisory group arguing for a radical shake-up of energy pricing structures highlights the need for mandatory energy audits and government action to assist consumers to purchase more energy-efficient devices, says NECA CEO Suresh Manickam.

The study highlights that the average household power bill in Australia rose by 70% over the past five years with energy companies being forced to invest up to $8 billion to upgrade network infrastructure to cope with peak demand usage. The details of the study can be found here.

“The study further highlights that mandatory energy audits and government action is necessary to educate consumers about efficient energy use”, said Manickam.

“The costs of energy use are continuing to rise and, unless change is made and further advice is provided, consumers will continue to see their power bills rise.”

“The Grattan Institute study makes it clear that consumers benefit when they are fully aware of the potential cost impacts of inefficient energy usage and, in France, where this model has been in place for over twenty years, bills have dropped by 10% with consumption dropping by 45% on peak demand days.”