POWER PRICES COMING DOWN UNDER COALITION GOVERNMENT

Member for Barker Tony Pasin has today welcomed 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.

“Our Government strongly believes customers should be rewarded for loyalty – not punished,” Mr Pasin said.

“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 businesses 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.

Mr Pasin said AGL’s move to lower power prices is a good outcome for Australian families and hardworking businesses.

“Rising power prices are impacting household budgets and are stopping small businesses from growing and employing more staff,” he said.

“This first step will give AGL standing offer customers a better deal for an essential service.”

“I encourage AGL customers in Barker on standing offers to contact AGL and seek an even better deal.”

While Mr Pasin commends AGL to be the first to respond, he said more needs to be done.

“We’re urging the other energy companies to follow AGL’s lead and address concerns on energy affordability.”

The Coalition Government is taking strong action to lower power price while keeping the lights on.

In contrast, Labor plan on introducing a 50% Renewable Energy Target and 45% Emissions Reduction Target.

This reckless policy will damage the economy and be paid for by every energy user in the country.

Contact: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466