The Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO) is pleased to announce that the Power of Choice (PoC) reforms are in effect from today.
These reforms originated from the Australian Energy Market Commission’s Power of Choice review and are intended to enhance competition for consumers and enable them to better access and manage electricity usage.
Responsibility for installing and maintaining advanced meters has previously been with the distribution businesses. Under these reforms, from 1 December 2017, this now shifts to electricity retailers who will contract a metering coordinator to maintain and install the meters. Customers are also free to choose whether they want the advanced meter installed or not.
“These reforms will allow the introduction of further new and innovative services to the National Electricity Market, ultimately enabling customers to manage their electricity services and usage in a manner that suits best,” said AEMO’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Audrey Zibelman.
“On behalf of AEMO, I would like to thank the industry for their efforts and commitment in working with us to deliver these suite of changes, which will result in better outcomes for consumers,” she said.
To access the best out of the Power of Choice changes, customers need to talk to their retailer to see what services they offer once a smart meter is installed.
For more information: AEMO Media | Mobile: 0409 382 121 | Email: media@aemo.com.au
For a PDF version of this media release, please click here.
Further information on the Power of Choice program of reforms can be found here and on AEMO's website here.