VCOSS statement on Midday Power Saver

MEDIA RELEASE

The Victorian Council of Social Service has welcomed the Victorian Government’s Midday Power Saver as an initiative to help Victorians save on their power bills and benefit from renewable energy.

VCOSS CEO Juanita Pope said:

“Many Victorians, including students, older Victorians and people currently unemployed who can move their energy usage to the middle of the day will be able to take advantage of the Midday Power Saver.”

“By encouraging consumers to use appliances in the middle of the day when there is plenty of solar power available, the scheme will also work to reduce pressure on the grid at other times which, if regulated effectively, can benefit all energy users.”

“We support the Victorian Government taking the time needed to design this scheme well. Starting the scheme in October allows time to develop the regulatory safeguards and pricing controls to make sure that vulnerable consumers aren’t swindled, and the public benefit of the scheme is optimised.”

“VCOSS is pleased to see that the Essential Services Commission will play a critical role in reviewing pricing for the Midday Power Saver, and that there will be regulations in place to ensure consumers are well informed about potential costs or savings, before opting into the offer.”

“While the Midday Power Saver will help many Victorians, we know there are also many households struggling with energy bills that aren’t in a position to shift their usage to benefit from the scheme. These include people in poor quality housing, renters with inefficient heating, and frontline community service workers who can’t avoid using energy at peak evening times. It’s important these Victorians are supported to reduce their energy costs as well.”