Don’t overlook seniors in energy debate
The over-50s have welcomed the federal government’s Energy White Paper 2012 which acknowledges the impact of soaring and unsustainable energy prices on Australian households. National Seniors chief executive, Michael O’Neill, said the White Paper’s emphasis on the implementation of time-based cost-reflective pricing theoretically would lower peak electricity demand
The over-50s have welcomed the federal government’s Energy White Paper 2012 which acknowledges the impact of soaring and unsustainable energy prices on Australian households.
National Seniors chief executive, Michael O’Neill, said the White Paper’s emphasis on the implementation of time-based cost-reflective pricing theoretically would lower peak electricity demand, subsequently reducing the cost of electricity for consumers.
“However, there is still the risk that the unique electricity usage constraints and limited financial capacity of seniors will be overlooked,” he added.
“Pensioners and retirees who often live in one or two people households and use very low levels of electricity are most at risk under these proposed reforms.”
The Energy White Paper 2012, Australia’s energy transformation, sets out a strategic policy framework to address the challenges in our energy sector and position Australia for a long term transformation in the way we produce and use energy.
According to Mr O’Neill, seniors have little to no ability to reduce their electricity consumption or amend the timing of their electricity usage.
Smaller households using less electricity could end up paying more for their electricity if adequate protection measures are not developed, he warned.
“Consumers must be given the choice to remain on a flat rate tariff and should not be burdened with the additional cost associated with the introduction of smart meters.
“Low electricity consumers including pensioners and senior Australians should be rewarded for their efficient energy use and not disadvantaged,’’ Mr O’Neill said.
