Federal Energy Minister Chris Bowen’s claim the Albanese government had shielded consumers from the worst of power price rises would be cold comfort to households and businesses facing rises of up to 30 per cent from July 1, according to consumer groups.

Under draft default market offers announced by energy regulators on Wednesday, customers in NSW, South Australia and parts of Queensland face increases of as much as 23.7 per cent and businesses up to 25.4 per cent.