The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) today published a report into retail performance for the October to December 2023 quarter.
The report shows median market offer prices for electricity and gas increased across most distribution zones from June to December 2023.
The report also found that the number of residential consumers accessing a hardship plan with their energy retailer and residential energy debt has increased over the last 12 months.
There are indicators though that retailers are engaging earlier with customers experiencing payment difficulties, as customers are entering hardship programs with less debt and on average holding less debt while on a hardship program.
In an encouraging sign for market competition, Tier 2 retailers continue to increase their market share in both electricity and gas markets.