Australian watchdog accepts EnergyAustralia's undertaking over violation of electricity rules
A regulator in Australia announced on Monday that it had accepted a court-enforceable commitment from EnergyAustralia, after the retailer admitted to violating electricity retail regulations by failing to offer eligible customers a plan with 'three hours free electricity during daytime by the deadline of July 1.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission said EnergyAustralia (owned by Hong Kong listed CLP Holdings) failed to make available its Solar 'Sharer Offer on time, as required under Electricity Retail Code.
The Solar Sharer offer is intended to help eligible homes lower their electricity bills by shifting to a 3-hour period of free electricity during the day. According to the ACCC, EnergyAustralia launched the offer on August 3.
Anna Brakey, ACCC commissioner, said that the delay by EnergyAustralia in offering this plan to consumers initially prevented them from accessing it and taking advantage of its benefits.
EnergyAustralia, as one of the largest energy retailers in Australia, is expected to meet its legal obligations with better systems and processes.
EnergyAustralia didn't immediately respond to a request for a comment. A request for comment was not immediately responded to.
EnergyAustralia has agreed to comply with the ACCC and the Australian Energy Regulator. It will also train its staff to help customers who are seeking information on the offer.
In 2023, the ACCC sued the retailer of electricity for providing allegedly misleading information about electricity prices.
(source: Reuters)
