Pensioner’s energy bill blows out by $900

THE state government has defended its handling of household energy charges as Labor continues to unearth examples of astronomical bill hikes.

On Sunday, Labor presented another case of bill shock. Kathy Flynn of Chigwell faced a winter energy bill rise of $900.

“Kathy is a pensioner raising her grandchildren … Her winter power bill jumped by around $900 even though during those three months her energy consumption really didn’t change much,” Labor energy spokesman David O’Byrne said.

“Kathy previously had an energy-efficiency expert come to her house and is doing everything she practically can to lower her household consumption. She couldn’t afford to pay the giant bill so borrowed money from a family member, which she now has to pay back.

“If this government was happy to offer power price relief during the middle of the last election campaign in the summer of 2018, surely it can find a way to offer assistance to the thousands of Tasmanians like Kathy who are doing it really tough,” Mr O’Byrne said.

The energy bill hikes are being blamed on energy companies estimating bills during the coronavirus shutdown, leading to catch-up charge.

Energy Minister Guy Barnett said that the government was taking action to support customers.

“Our support package to help Tasmanians during COVID-19 with their electricity bills is extensive, with support still available. It includes a power price decrease from July 1 2020 and a $5 million investment by Aurora Energy to assist customers with bill relief, waiving fees or charges, and a range of other support measures,” Mr Barnett said.

“I urge Tasmanians who are struggling with their bills to contact Aurora as soon as possible so their situation can be properly assessed and supported. There is more than $4 million still available in this fund.”

BLAIR RICHARDS