The Morrison Government welcomes AGL’s move to lower power prices for customers on standing offers by introducing a safety net.
Current standing offer prices are a ‘loyalty tax’ on those Australian families and small businesses who have stayed with their energy company or don’t have time to shop around for a better deal.
The Morrison Government strongly believes customers should be rewarded for loyalty – not punished.
AGL has recognised this and have heeded the Government’s calls to put customers first.
AGL’s announcement will apply to those residential and small business AGL customers who have been on standing offers for over 1 year.
This means more than 150,000 Australia families will receive an average annual saving of between $50 – $180 off the standing offer, assuming average annual usage of 4.4 MWh on a peak only tariff.
27,000 small business will also benefit from an average annual saving of between $120 – $340 off the standing offer, assuming average annual usage of 8.8 MWh on a peak only tariff.
Local MP Karen Andrews said AGL’s move to lower power prices is a good outcome for Gold Coast families and hardworking businesses.
“Rising power prices are impacting household budgets and are stopping small businesses from growing and employing more staff”, said Mrs Andrews.
“This first step will give AGL standing offer customers a better deal for an essential service.”
“I encourage AGL customers on the Gold Coast on standing offers to contact AGL and seek an even better deal.”
While Mrs Andrews commends AGL to be the first to respond, she said more needs to be done.
“I urge the other energy companies to follow AGL’s lead and address concerns on energy affordability”, said Mrs Andrews.
The Morrison Government is taking strong action to lower power price while keeping the lights on.
In contrast, Labor plans on introducing a 50% Renewable Energy Target and 45% Emissions Reduction Target. This reckless policy will damage the local Gold Coast economy and be paid for by every energy user in the country.