Energy bill relief in NSW
WITH electricity bills on the rise and set to increase further in the coming months, it’s critical to know what energy rebates might be available and how to access them. For those living in embedded networks, also known as ‘on supply’ customers, this process can be more complex.
What is an Embedded Network?
An embedded network is a site where electricity is sold to individuals by an intermediary instead of mainstream energy providers such as AGL or Energy Australia. This is common in retirement villages, residential parks (also known as land lease communities), and some apartment complexes. Embedded networks are subject to different legislation than mainstream networks, and residents of embedded networks may face different requirements when applying for energy rebates.
Rebates for On Supply Consumers
Residents of embedded networks may qualify for a payment meant for ‘on supply’ customers, which is different than the ‘retail’ energy rebate for direct customers of mainstream energy providers. The on supply rebate is an annual lump sum payment rather than a credit split between quarterly power bills. Applications for both retail and on supply customers open in August for the 2023-24 financial year.
The on supply lump sum payment totals $313.5 per household per year, payable to the customer named on the energy bill. This differs from the rebate for retail customers, which is capped at $285 per household per year and is credited on a pro rata basis to each quarterly energy bill.
Residents of NSW who are eligible can also expect to receive a $500 National Energy Bill Relief payment. In order to qualify, households must be approved to receive a NSW energy rebate in the 2023-24 financial year. Eligible retail consumers can expect $500 to be automatically credited to their energy accounts after July 1st. Unfortunately, on supply consumers are unlikely to receive this rebate automatically. Services NSW have advised that information on how to apply will be released in October, a full 3 months after retail customers – so keep an eye on the NSW energy website for further information.
Fortunately, on supply consumers that do receive the NSW Low Income Household Rebate may utilise the lump sum payment at their own discretion.
Who is Eligible?
Please note that Commonwealth Seniors Health Card holders are not eligible for the Low Income Household rebate, unless they also hold one of the following:
- Pensioner Concession Card issued by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) or Services Australia
- Health Care Card issued by Services Australia, or
- DVA Gold Card marked ‘War Widow’ or ‘War Widower Pension’, or ‘Totally and Permanently Incapacitated’ (TPI) or ‘Disability Pension’ (EDA).
Applicants must also be a resident of NSW, and must be named on the energy bill. Please click here for more information or call Services NSW on 13 77 88.
Staying Up to Date
A recent survey by consumer advocate CHOICE found that 94% of Australians have noticed increased costs of living and 87% of us are worried about putting food on the table as inflation becomes increasingly challenging to manage. Consumers must stay informed to ensure that they are getting the best deal on their utilities and receiving the energy rebates that they are entitled to.
To stay up to date, check the Services NSW ‘Savings Finder’ page, or book a free 45 minute session with a Services NSW Savings Finder specialist.
Thanks to George Stewart for emailing us about this issue. If you have any concerns, queries or issues you would like us to address please contact us here.
