The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has published updated electricity consumption benchmarks for residential customers.
The benchmarks show how much electricity household of different sizes use in local zones around Australia. Retailers are required to publish the benchmarks for the relevant local zone on residential customers’ bills so that customers can compare their electricity usage with similar-sized households in their area. The benchmarks are based on survey data collected by consultants ACIL Allen. The updated benchmarks will take effect from 1 July 2015, until then retailers will continue to include the current benchmarks on customers’ bills.
In addition to the benchmark figures the AER has also published:
- ACIL Allen’s final report, explaining its methodology in calculating the benchmarks
- The results of ACIL Allen’s household survey
- The updated list of local zones and postcodes
- Updated guidance to energy retailers about how to display benchmark data on customers’ bills
Under the National Energy Retail Rules the AER must update the benchmarks at least every three years. The initial benchmarks were published and provided to retailers in December 2011.