The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has initiated the Retailer of Last Resort process that will allow for the transfer of customers from electricity retailer Power Club Limited to ensure the continued supply of essential energy services to these customers.
The AER applied the market safeguard after the company was suspended from the wholesale energy market for failing to comply with Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) requirements.
Power Club’s authorisation to trade was halted at 0:00 hours Australian Eastern Standard Time, 12 July 2022, impacting around 400 customers across New South Wales, Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory and South Australia.
Customers are not required to take any immediate action.
Under the Retailer of Last Resort process, customers will be transferred to retailers such as Origin Energy, Energy Australia and ActewAGL Retail, who will contact them directly to explain the new arrangements.
Customers are under no obligation to remain with their new retailer once they are transferred.
Our fact sheet frequently asked questions explains more about the Retailer of Last Resort scheme for Power Club customers. A special hotline has also been set up on 02 6243 3065.
Help for consumers to minimise energy bills in the current climate of higher wholesale prices is also available.
Background
The Australian Energy Regulator is responsible for overseeing the national Retailer of Last Resort scheme.
The scheme is designed to ensure that in the event of retailer failure, arrangements are in place to ensure that customers continue to receive electricity and/or gas supply.
If an energy retailer fails, the AER has the power to transfer customers to a new retailer.