State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery, has called on the Government to do more to reduce energy prices after the release of the Energy and Water Ombudsman Annual Report showed the number of cases in Wallsend had skyrocketed.
The report showed more than 2000 cases had been raised across the Hunter and more than 400 of those cases from the Wallsend electorate. This was an increase of more than 10% on last year’s figures. More than 76% of these cases related to billing issues.
Wallsend residents are feeling the pressure from huge increases in power following the Government’s decision to pursue legal action to prevent the state’s households from saving up to $313 on their power bills.
Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery
“It is no great surprise to see the number of cases with the Energy and Water Ombudsman going through the roof.”
“Power bills have increased and it has been too much for some to cope with. My office has received hundreds of complaints and some have been referred to the Ombudsman for further investigation.”
“Last year we saw the Government talk up the sale of the electricity network and how it was good for the State and how it would lead to cheaper prices in NSW.”
“Some people could not afford to turn on their heater this winter as a result of this increase and as we head into summer, residents face a sweltering summer because they can’t afford to turn on their electricity.”
“Last year, the Government provided $259 million in energy rebates – an average of $323.70 per eligible household, but in this year’s Budget, this assistance was cut by 12 per cent, down to $285.56 per eligible household.”
“The Government has to do more to help those that are struggling the most.”
The solution is simple, the Government should regulate so that retailers put vulnerable customers on the best available offer.”