Implement strong protections to ensure households benefit from new energy technology
Consumer Action’s legal and financial counselling services have regularly assisted consumers experiencing harm as solar technology grows in popularity in Victoria. Our Power Transformed, Knock It Off! and Sunny Side Up reports have explored aspects of consumer harm related to the transitioning energy market and have recommendations relevant to the Issues Paper. As other new energy technologies become increasingly available for an even greater number of consumers, robust protections must be implemented to ensure good outcomes for consumers accessing essential energy services.
The AEMC should pursue enforceable protections for consumers that are delivered by regulators and ensure harm is avoided wherever possible. The AEMC should also ensure that appropriate processes are in place to resolve issues that arise. Such processes should be designed to identify and address any systemic issues that arise. This approach is the best pathway to avoiding ongoing harm to consumers.
Read the full submission here [PDF]
