The Australian Energy Regulator welcomed today’s announcement of increased funding to enhance its Energy Made Easy website.
“This new funding will help ensure the independent government-funded offer comparison website continues to help customers in a rapidly transforming retail energy market,” Acting AER Chair Cristina Cifuentes said.
“While energy affordability is a significant issue for a growing number of Australian households, many customers are not shopping around for lower prices. “We know a major reason for this is the complexity of the market.
“Energy Made Easy plays an important role in building customer confidence by helping people compare their options and make the best choice for their circumstances,” Ms Cifuentes said.
“The funding announced today will help ensure Energy Made Easy remains useful in an energy market where ‘smart’ meters are increasingly widespread, millions of households have solar systems, and retailers offer a greater range of innovative tariffs and services,” she added.
Ms Cifuentes said the AER would commence work to upgrade the website in 2018. The changes to the website will happen over time with an early focus on helping customers find a better offer for their energy needs.
The AER first launched Energy Made Easy in 2012. It provides a retail price comparator and other information for energy consumers, and operates in states and territories that have adopted the National Energy Retail Law – South Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, the ACT and Tasmania.