‘Absolutely fantastic’: Why MP is glad about switch to standard tariff

Maryborough’s MP Bruce Saunders explains why he believes the switch from obsolete to standard tariff is “absolutely fantastic” for the region.

A new energy rebate scheme has been put in place for those whose annual power bills are impacted when switching to a standard tariff.

A new energy rebate scheme, which will see farmers, businesses and manufacturers electricity bills decreased, will be “absolutely fantastic” according to Maryborough MP Bruce Saunders.

The Electricity Tariff Adjustment Scheme (ETAS) will be automatically applied to eligible energy accounts from July 1.

Mr Saunders said this scheme, which he has been a strong campaigner for, will see Maryborough’s CR foundry’s electricity prices “at the same rate for the next nine years”.

“In Maryborough, it's about the foundry, this is going to keep the foundry's electricity prices reasonable,” Mr Saunders told the Chronicle.

“We‘re subsidising that as a government and helping them modernise and get ready for the new tariffs.”

Mr Saunders said the switch to standard tariffs is said to keep 123 people employed at Maryborough's foundry.

The switch to standard tariffs will keep more than 100 people employed at the Maryborough foundry.

“This is great news for Maryborough, the minister really listened, talking to Ergon Energy, this will keep 123 people employed at the foundry, the biggest foundry on the east coast of Australia.”

Minister for Energy, Renewables and Hydrogen Mick de Brenni said, excluding tariffs 47 and 48, all obsolete tariffs will cease on June 30 this year, as these customers will be automatically switched to a standard business tariff from July 1.

“The rebates will be applied for regional farmers, businesses and manufacturers whose annual power bills are impacted when switching to a standard tariff ... ETAS will support employers by ensuring their viability,” he said.

Obsolete tariffs, excluding tariffs 47 and 48, will automatically switch to standard on July 1.

Minister de Brenni said the new rebate would be calculated based on each individual customer’s bill impact and will be initially tiered, covering most of the impact before tapering off over up to nine years.

“Ergon Energy Retail will analyse existing bill data of around 20,000 regional farmers and businesses that are currently still on obsolete tariffs to identify eligible customers,” he said.

“From July 2021, Ergon will start implementing the rebates and contact eligible customers to provide them with details about the scheme. Customers don’t need to do anything until then.”

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