Q&A with the AER

On "02/10/2024", the "Australian Energy Regulator (AER)" issued an update regarding Q&A with the AER.
The AER supports speeding up the deployment of smart meters, but emphasizes the need for consumer protections, particularly in relation to pricing structures and bill shock.

The concerns raised include the potential for complex pricing schemes and unintended changes to customer billing, which could lead to significant bill shocks. To address this, retailers must obtain explicit informed consent from customers before making changes to their pricing structure following smart meter installation.

The AER's role is crucial in ensuring compliance with national energy retail rules once rule changes are made. This includes providing guidance to retailers on how to comply and monitoring compliance, taking enforcement action if necessary.

Retailers will play a key role in ensuring consumers receive the best outcome for their circumstances, particularly those who can manage or shift energy usage. The AER's support is contingent upon implementing appropriate consumer protections, including flat retail tariffs as an option for customers seeking certainty about their electricity prices.

The submission also emphasizes the importance of retailers engaging with their customers and providing clear information to ensure a smooth transition to smart meter deployment.