Households in regional Victoria slugged almost $1000 to switch from gas to all-electric homes

Victorians in regional households are being told to cough up $750 more than those in Melbourne to switch from gas to all-electric homes under the government’s energy plan.

Portland resident, Meryl Nesbit, had hundreds shaved off her energy bill when she complained to the ombudsman. She’s worried others might not be so lucky. Picture: Nicole Cleary

Some households in regional Victoria are being slugged almost $1000 just to have their gas disconnected when switching to all-electric homes under the government’s transition plan.

Retiree Meryl Nesbit, in Portland, said it was only after complaining to the ombudsman that her energy provider reduced a $958 charge to $200.

But Mrs Nesbit said she was aware some pensioners had been hit by the full cost.

“I’m concerned for the elderly who didn’t go further to complain to the ombudsman and just paid it,” she said.

While the Australian Energy Regulator is responsible for setting disconnection charges, which can be about $100 for temporary capping and up to $1000 for permanent removal of meter and lines, Liberal Roma Britnell said the Andrews Government needed to highlight the hidden cost rather than just spruik electric energy upgrade rebates.

The Andrews government is being called on to highlight the hidden cost. Picture: NCA NewsWire / Ian Currie

“They have not been upfront with Victorians about the costs involved in transitioning away from gas,” the South West Coast MP said.

“The Andrews Labor Government wants Victorians to embrace alternatives to gas but when regional Victorian’s do so they are slugged over $900 to disconnect their properties from gas, while metro Victorians are charged $150. Is this how Daniel Andrews’ governs for all Victorians?”

The Andrews Government said any criticism lay with the AER, but said Victoria’s electric upgrade subsidies were slashing household bills and cutting emissions.

“It is unacceptable that some Victorians are being charged too much to shift away from gas and to cheaper and more efficient electric products,” a government spokeswoman said.

“We look forward to the AER addressing barriers to electrification and, if necessary, we won’t hesitate to take action to ensure gas suppliers are charging fair prices for their services.”