8 July 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Progressives welcome regulation for cheaper power bills

The government's announcement that power companies will have to offer a genuine low daily-fixed-rate option is great news for superannuitants and families on low incomes, Progressive MP Matt Robson said today.

"The deregulation of the electricity industry has meant that some of the biggest players in the power market have been getting away with charging high rates on the smallest users of electricity.

“This was never acceptable and Progressive is glad to be part of a government putting a stop to this.

"Those people trying to save on the power bill will now be rewarded with a low tariff. That is great news for people living on low incomes in mid-winter.

"Progressive campaigned in the last election for a winter energy cost rebate for beneficiaries, superannuitants and low income earners. The policy introduced today effectively helps the same groups really save money when they are saving power to keep the bills low," Matt Robson said.

The government will introduce regulations requiring power companies to offer a tariff option with a daily fixed rate of no more than 30 cents per day plus GST. It is aimed at households using less than 8000 KwH per year and will make them better off.

ENDS

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