Scoping study for consumer energy data access
The Australian Government announced in 2011 as part of its Clean Energy Future package that it would undertake a scoping study into an energy information hub to improve energy information disclosure that would provide consumers with easier access to their energy information currently held by retailers and distributors.
Simple, timely and low-cost access to energy data becomes much more important when interval meters (including smart meters) are in place and time-varying price offers are available, because the data are much more detailed than current quarterly readings and cannot be shown on electricity bills.
The scoping study indicates that improving consumer access to and control over their own energy consumption data can assist consumers to better manage their energy consumption, choose appropriate retail tariffs, and reduce their bills.
Emerging retailer and distributor web portals are a positive step, but there is further potential to make it easier for consumers to use their energy profile data, such as when comparing retail offers or getting energy efficiency advice.
Access to consumption data would assist consumers to compare energy market offers (including time-varying vs. flat tariff options) via price comparison services.
The scoping study was completed in August 2012.
How is RET involved?
RET has completed the scoping study, and will consider and advise the Australian Government of appropriate actions as part of its broader work on demand side participation in energy markets.
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For more information about the scoping study contact:
Email: oliver.story@ret.gov.au.
Phone: (02) 6213 6185